Australia launches its first women’s investment fund, Future Generation Women, delivering strong financial returns and gender equality.
A New Era of Women-Led Finance
Australia is set to witness a groundbreaking shift in the investment landscape with the launch of Future Generation Women, the nation’s first women’s investment fund. This innovative fund, spearheaded by an all-female management team, aims to deliver solid financial returns while driving significant progress towards gender equality.
A Unique Approach to Investing
Future Generation Women will adopt a gender lens in its investment decisions, prioritising companies with strong track records in gender equity, diverse leadership, and equitable pay practices. A unique feature of this fund is its commitment to philanthropy, with 1% of its assets annually donated to non-profit organisations focused on advancing women’s economic equality and opportunity.
A Powerful Partnership
Minderoo Foundation, a leading Australian philanthropic organisation, is backing this initiative with a substantial A$100 million commitment. Nicola Forrest AO, Founder of Minderoo Foundation, emphasised the importance of addressing gender inequality, stating, “Every year, gender inequality costs Australia A$128 billion. To truly shift the dial, we need changemakers who are ready to speak up and act.”
A Visionary Leadership Team
The fund’s all-female management team, comprising industry-leading portfolio managers, will work on a pro bono basis. Elana Rubin AM, an Advisory Member of Future Generation Women, highlighted the fund’s dual mission: “Empowering women to take control of their financial futures and addressing barriers to women’s participation in the funds management industry.”
A Future of Opportunity
Geoff Wilson AO, Founder of Future Generation, expressed his enthusiasm for the fund’s potential: “Future Generation Women represents the next frontier in investing for impact. By investing in fund managers, companies, and non-profits striving for gender equity, we’re helping to shape a world where women have the opportunities and resources they need to thrive.”
A Collaborative Effort
Major service providers, including Citigroup, Equity Trustees, and Boardroom, have also waived their fees, demonstrating a collective commitment to the fund’s mission. Carol Schwartz AO, Chair of Equity Trustees, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for partnering with Future Generation Women to deliver both investment and social returns.
Future Generation Women is now open for investment, with a minimum investment of A$250,000. Individuals and institutions who invest before March 31, 2025, will be recognised as founding investors.
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