While Schroders is transferring part of the mutual fund business managed by its wholly-owned China unit to Neuberger Berman, the British asset manager insists it will continue to provide public and private fund services for Chinese investors, dismissing speculation that it is exiting China.

Schroder Fund Management (China) Co Ltd said on Wednesday that it has submitted applications to the China Securities Regulatory Commission to change the registered manager of three publicly offered securities investment funds in China to Neuberger Berman Fund Management (China) Ltd.

Schroders said the adjustment was part of the group's broader global strategic transformation rather than an exit from the Chinese market.

Since 2025, the group has been carrying out a three-year global transformation plan aimed at sharpening business focus and improving operational efficiency, including streamlining business layouts and client offerings in selected markets across Asia, Europe and South America.

Schroder Fund Management (China) said the group remains committed to long-term investment in China and unchanged in its overall China strategy.

"The Chinese market contains tremendous opportunities," a spokesperson for the company said.

"Schroders remains firmly committed to the long-term development and success of the Chinese market, and will continue to deepen its presence in China by providing diversified investment solutions, products and services for Chinese investors across the broader asset management market, including both public and private funds."

Neuberger Berman Fund Management (China) said in a separate announcement that, subject to approval by fund holders' meetings, it will also take over part of the core investment staff managing the relevant funds.

Since launching operations in 2022, Neuberger Berman Fund Management (China) has rolled out equity, hybrid and bond mutual fund products and currently manages 19 mutual funds.

The company said the takeover reflects NB's long-term optimism toward China's capital market and forms part of its strategy to deepen its China presence.