"The RiverSource mutual funds are the only way to access us in the U.S.," Lowndes added. The Threadneedle mutual funds are distributed through Ameriprise Financial's network of 10,000 financial advisors and registered representatives. To be sure Threadneedle's value is understood, plans are currently underway to have meetings and conference calls with advisors, and issue white papers beginning this summer, confirmed RiverSource spokesman Lund. The firm is also considering a potential print advertising campaign, he added. While Threadneedle is happy to emerge from RiverSource's shadow, it has no plans to build a physical investment management presence in the U.S. "For 12 years we've always had money managed from London," Lowndes said.