WestSpring is a New York-based credit-focused asset manager that will seek to exploit market inefficiencies through a combined fundamental and quantitative approach to credit analysis. WestSpring was formed in May 2009 by Ralph Nacey and Eric Phillipps who have worked together since 2002, most recently as chief investment officer and portfolio manager/lead trader respectively at long-short credit-focused hedge fund Brigadier Capital Management.

Clive Peggram, chief executive of FCA, says: 'WestSpring offers a transparent investment strategy and the team has an excellent track record of delivering returns and properly managing risks. They are among a select group of managers that have a deep understanding of the inefficiencies surrounding asset backed security and credit valuations, and we expect this knowledge to allow the WestSpring team to continue to deliver impressive returns. We are confident in their ability to build a high quality alternative investment business and we believe this strategic relationship is a great opportunity for our investors.'

Nacey says: 'When planning the launch of our business it was important for us to partner with the right team and institution. As part of the FRM Group, FCA provides the ideal combination of institutional depth and infrastructure along with a talented investment team that understands and supports our investment approach.'

Following the signing of the strategic relationship WestSpring is expected to launch its first fund in September 2009.

WestSpring represents FCA's second strategic investment announced within the last month. On 16 July 2009 FCA announced a strategic investment in JD Capital's volatility trading strategy.