New Forests is set to be acquired by two Japanese investment heavyweights, Mitsui and Nomura.
The Sydney-based investment manager was founded in 2005 by David Brand, since then it’s led pioneering work in nature-based real assets and natural capital strategies. From sustainable forestry to carbon and conservation finance projects, as well as infrastructure, the team now manages almost 1 million hectares of land.
Its expertly blended impact principles with forestry operations and investment management to create a unique company. As
The acquisition will see Mitsui increase its shareholding from 23% to 49%, Nomura will hold 41%, with the remaining 10% to be held by existing New Forests staff.
Investment capital will be directed towards New Forests’ strategic growth initiatives and the global expansion of its investment platform. And it will leverage Nomura’s global distribution network, particularly across Japan and the rest of Asia.
“Mitsui’s investment in New Forests is part of our sustainability strategy to invest in companies who are at the forefront of climate change mitigation and who are positively contributing to communities. We are looking forward to our continued partnership with New Forests and supporting its next stage of growth.” says Hiroshi Kakiuchi, Managing Officer and COO at Mitsui.
“New Forests has achieved a great deal over the past 17 years, growing institutional investment in the forestry asset class and re-imagining the investment opportunities in rural landscapes. The rising need to substantially increase investment in sustainable land use, along with increasing investor interest is creating an opportunity to accelerate the growth of New Forests. I am delighted to have found two partners in Mitsui and Nomura who share in our vision and will provide us the support to further scale our business and provide new opportunities for our clients, stakeholders and our 100 staff.” says CEO and Chairman, David Brand.
As part of the agreement, David Brand will continue with the company until June 2025 and focus on strategic work and growth.
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