Sanlam : Acquires Majority Stake in PineBridge

Sanlam Emerging Markets Chief Executive Officer, Mr Junior Ngulube, says the acquisition will increase Sanlam's asset management presence and capability in the region and enable the Group to build a leading position in institutional, affluent and retail investment management across East Africa.

Mr Anthony King, Regional CEO, EMEA at PineBridge Investments, says: 'We looked for a partner in Africa who could best continue to work with our clients on the continent and we are pleased to have been able to complete this transaction with Sanlam. At the forefront of our negotiations was the need to secure a buyer with a strong local heritage in order to maximise future business growth and honour fiduciary, client and employee agreements. Sanlam is a respected brand with a compelling regional footprint that will offer financial strength and further access to local investment opportunities.'

Mr Ngulube adds that the transaction is expected to unlock synergies that reach beyond asset management. 'The existing Sanlam businesses in East Africa will be able to leverage SIEAL's capabilities. As the business develops, it will provide opportunities to expand geographically and develop other investment products.'

The Sanlam Group is one of Africa's largest financial services providers, with a market capitalization in excess of US$ 11 billion (9 March 2017) and operations in 34 African countries. Their investment management businesses currently have approximately US $60 billion in assets under management. Sanlam offers a comprehensive range of local and offshore investment products to end-investors, financial planners and institutions. Its investment options include passively and actively managed unit trusts, hedge funds, and segregated and pooled retirement funds.

Mr Jonathan Stichbury, Chief Executive Officer of PIEAL adds: 'Becoming part of the Sanlam Group offers our clients and staff new opportunities. We look forward to working with Sanlam to create value for our clients and continue building the East African business.'