Generate expands its private equity investments

The investment builds on Generate’s existing support of Icehouse Ventures Growth Fund II, and reflects Generate’s continued focus on identifying high-quality long-term investment opportunities for KiwiSaver and managed fund investors.

Generate Chief Investment Officer Sam Goldwater says the investment gives everyday Kiwis greater access to some of the country’s most promising growth businesses – opportunities that have traditionally been difficult for regular investors to access.

“Certain KiwiSaver providers give New Zealanders the ability to invest in a much broader range of opportunities than many people realise,” says Goldwater. “Alongside global and Australasian listed shares, we also look for private market investments that have the potential to deliver strong long-term returns for our members while supporting innovation and economic growth here in New Zealand.”

In 2023 Generate cornerstoned Icehouse Ventures’ Growth Fund II with a $20 million commitment. The Fund has backed a number of high growth New Zealand companies including Halter, Tracksuit, Crimson Education, Sharesies and Hnry.

Goldwater says Generate’s venture capital investment approach remains highly selective, with a strong focus on quality managers and long-term growth potential. “We’re very disciplined about the opportunities we invest in. Our focus is always on delivering strong long-term outcomes for our members,” he says.