Louisville-based investment management firm stands strong through recession, remaining independently owned and retaining all original partners and staff since its inception in 1999.
(Louisville, KY) — Louisville-based investment advisory firm Parthenon LLC is celebrating its 15th anniversary in April. Founded in 1999, Parthenon thrived during the downturn following the dot-com bust and navigated the 2008 bear market and subsequent recession by maintaining fundamental investing strategies — identifying well-managed, high-return, growing businesses whose stocks are priced significantly below estimated intrinsic values.
Parthenon’s approach is long-term, resulting in a significantly below-average portfolio turnover. Parthenon also manages fixed income portfolios, focusing on high-quality securities with attention paid to tax considerations. In addition, the firm is the General Partner and Advisor for Fort Nelson Partners, LLC, a private fund. The company has sustained growth at a modest pace over the past 15 years, with assets under management of $512 million as of March 31.
Parthenon has retained its original staff and has remained locally based and employee-owned since its beginnings, providing investment management services for families, trusts and institutions. The four founding partners, with over 100 years combined investment experience, continue to manage client accounts and drive the company’s growth. They are: J. McFerran Barr II, chairman, who serves as director of business development; Tony H. Coffey, executive vice president, who serves as director of fixed income management; Thomas A. Corea, CEO, who serves as director of equity strategy; and Todd P. Lowe, president, who serves as managing principal. Parthenon’s two administrators, Dianna Saylor, Vice President and Panayiota Jones, Vice President, each have more than 25 years of experience with complex accounts.
“Parthenon’s stock selection does not rely on technical analysis or market forecasts,” said Corea. “We do not attempt to anticipate, or profit from, short-term market fluctuations. We’ve been successful because we participate in the growth of the businesses we own and gain rewards from the market’s eventual recognition of their true value.”
In addition to guiding client investments, Parthenon’s partners invest in their community through volunteer service on nonprofit boards and other positions. Those organizations include: Louisville Male High School, Susan G. Komen Foundation, Kentucky Derby Festival, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Louisville Orchestra, Louisville Public Media, Kentucky Arts Council, National Assembly of States Arts Agencies, CFA Institute, Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve, Rotary Club of Louisville, Lincoln Heritage Council Boy Scouts, Cave Hill Cemetery and YMCA of Greater Louisville.
“Parthenon is very fortunate to have a long history in the Louisville business community,” said Lowe. “We intend for that to continue for many years to come.”
