Olav Chen Named Finalist for International Investment Industry Award

Olav Chen, Head of Asset Allocation and Global Fixed Income at Storebrand Asset Management, has been named a finalist for the "Influencer of the Year" award at the Institutional Investor Recognition Awards 2026. Nicolai Tangen, CEO of Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM), which manages Norway's sovereign wealth fund, is also among the five finalists.

Olav Chen and his team manage approximately NOK 200 billion on behalf of Storebrand's clients. He is one of five finalists nominated for the international "Influencer of the Year" award.

Also nominated is Nicolai Tangen, CEO of Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM), which manages Norway's sovereign wealth fund. The award will be presented in Copenhagen on 24 September.

Recognised for Market Insight and Communication

Institutional Investor has nominated Olav Chen for his contribution to the institutional investment industry. The winner will be selected by an independent panel of experienced industry professionals and announced during the awards ceremony in Copenhagen on 24 September.

In its nomination, Institutional Investor highlights Chen's ability to explain how global developments influence financial markets and long-term investment trends. His market commentaries, media interviews and social media contributions are also specifically recognised.

"I am both proud and grateful for this nomination. My goal has always been to contribute to a broader understanding of investing, financial markets and macroeconomics. I try to do that through the media, on social platforms and at events where we engage directly with investors," says Chen.

He believes that clear communication is becoming increasingly important as economics, geopolitics and financial markets become ever more interconnected.

"Markets are influenced by a growing number of global and political factors. My ambition is to make complex relationships easier to understand while being transparent about uncertainty and the various scenarios investors need to consider."

Sharing the Recognition with the Team

Chen leads Asset Allocation and Global Fixed Income at Storebrand Asset Management. His team manages approximately NOK 200 billion across tactical funds and portfolios.

He emphasises that the nomination is also a recognition of the broader investment team behind the views and analysis he communicates.

"I share this nomination and recognition with my team. The market views and assessments we communicate are the result of thorough and collaborative analytical work. I am fortunate to work with highly skilled colleagues who challenge one another and bring different perspectives to the table."

Chen notes that discipline and the willingness to challenge one's own assumptions are essential qualities in asset management.

"We need to have conviction in our views, but also remain humble about the possibility that markets may develop differently than expected. Our responsibility is to analyse new information, challenge our assumptions and make sound long-term decisions on behalf of our clients."

Two Norwegian Profiles Among the Nominees

In addition to Olav Chen and Nicolai Tangen, the following individuals have been nominated:

• Marika Hilldoff, AP7, Sweden
• Greta Teot, Mediobanca, Italy
• Michel Munz, Julius Baer, Switzerland

About Institutional Investor

Institutional Investor is a global knowledge and networking platform for institutional investors and asset managers. For nearly 60 years, the organisation has brought together investment professionals through research, professional networks and industry events.

The winners will be announced during the annual European Investment Roundtable in Copenhagen on 24 September.