Kagiso Asset Management (KAM) is changing its name to Camissa Asset Management, as part of corporate restructuring.
“This transaction is a positive development at a time when our business is on a strong growth trajectory – on the back of excellent long-term investment performance. Majority staff ownership and greater independence further strengthens the business foundations for the next phase of delivering for our valued clients,” says Roland Greaver, CEO and co-founder of KAM.
The restructuring transaction sees founding shareholder Kagiso Tiso Holdings (KTH) sell its 50.1% share in the business to a combination of KAM management and staff, and Sinayo Capital. “Our 20-year association with KAM has been very rewarding and the sale of KAM is part of KTH’s evolution with a greater focus on fewer large investments,” states Paballo Makosholo, CEO of KTH.
KAM’s management and staff have taken control of the business, with a 74% joint shareholding, and Sinayo Capital now owns a substantial minority stake of 26%.
“Our clients will benefit from the greater alignment of interest with our key professionals that stems from the 24% increase in staff shareholding. Staff ownership promotes a long-term orientation and vision, which aligns well with our high conviction, active investment approach. It has also assisted our team to be remarkably stable over the last two decades. This transaction will bolster our ability to continue to retain the best professionals in the market,” says Gavin Wood, CIO and co-founder of KAM.
KAM’s existing Level 1 BB-BEE credentials are further boosted by the increased direct black female ownership. The business is now 30%-owned by black women, via Sinayo Capital and the Martha Molobi Women’s Trust. This trust owns 4% of KAM and has beneficiaries who comprise black female KAM management. “We are delighted to partner with a management team that have garnered much respect in this fiercely competitive industry. We are passionate about increasing the involvement of women in financial services and this transaction is welcomed as deeply transformative in an industry where female participation still has a long way to go,” comments Babalwa Ngonyama, CEO of Sinayo Capital.
“We are looking forward to the new opportunities arising from our partnership with Sinayo Capital, while maintaining our focus on delivering outstanding performance for our clients and providing them with excellent service,” concludes Greaver.