Deutsche Bank’s retail asset management business DWS Investments has launched its first structured product offering in Australia. DWS Rate Plus is capital protected and aims for a cash-plus return after fees, regardless of market conditions.Chris Larsen, DB’s local deputy head of asset management, said the launch was motivated by growing demand among Australians for investments that provide regular income with a capital guarantee, and for further diversification. “Given the recent turbulence and volatility in global financial markets, structured products, particularly those with capital protection, are increasingly attractive to the retail market,” he said.

Demographically, the product is targeted at the retiring baby boomer market, he added.

DB went live with the rebranding of its Australian retail asset management business as DWS Investments in October. The bank said at the time that the rebranding exercise was intended to herald the introduction of a new structured fund capability.

DB in Australia is now organised along four business lines: DWS Investments creates and markets retail products, including managed funds and structured products; RREEF, the alternative assets brand, includes hedge funds, private equity, real estate and infrastructure. The separate insurance and institutional businesses continue to be covered by Deutsche Asset Management (DeAM).