The equity funds including mid cap value, small cap value and real estate were previously managed by Stratton Management.

The Sterling Capital Stratton mid cap value fund is for investors seeking equity exposure to the mid-capitalization segment of the US equity market, and are investing for retirement or other long-term goals.

The Sterling Capital Stratton real estate fund is for investors who seek total return through real estate securities, while Sterling Capital Stratton small cap value fund is for those who prefer an investment that focuses on capital appreciation, are willing to accept more market risk in return for potentially higher returns that may come from investing in small-cap companies, and are investing for retirement or other long-term goals, the company said.

Sterling Capital Management sales & client service head John W. McAuley said: "We are very excited to bring on these new strategies that complement our existing suite of investment solutions.

"The combined entity will allow us to meet the ever-changing landscape of the adviser community."

The Sterling Capital Stratton funds will be offered in A, C, and Institutional share classes.

Stratton small cap value fund portfolio manager Gerald M. Van Horn said: "We look forward to joining the Sterling Capital team and are confident shareholders will greatly benefit from this combination.

"Sterling’s scale and depth of operational support will allow us to continue to focus on the well-established investment processes of these three products."

Sterling Capital’s funds are distributed by Sterling Capital Distributors, which is not affiliated with Branch Banking and Trust Company or its affiliates.