First AI fund launched by Nextgen


Australia’s first artificial intelligence (AI) fund has been launched by Nextgen Funds Management to invest in companies delivering AI technology.
It would focus on those which addressed environmental, social and industrial challenges globally by investing in a mix of debt and equity in areas such as health and wellbeing, infrastructure, transport and cybersecurity. By 2028, AI was forecast to be worth $315 billion to the Australian economy.
Samuel Mullavey, head of distribution at Nextgen, said: “We believe AI will be the defining technology of our time. It is set for accelerated growth and demand and, as such, we have positioned the fund to take advantage of the exciting investment opportunities unavailable to public markets.
“As a result, there are unprecedented levels of global activity and investment in AI. In recent times we have seen a total of $86 billion dedicated to AI programs and activities from 14 of the world’s most advanced economies. Locally the Australian technology industry will require up to 161,000 new expert AI professionals by 2030,” he said.
“In many cases, the technology is already available, but the challenge many smaller AI firms face is commercialising ideas into a viable product or service. This as a major opportunity to leverage our strong partnerships, experience, and networks, and provide the expert support required to navigate this tricky stage of development.”
Recommended for you
Selfwealth has provided an update on the status of its scheme implementation deed with Bell Financial Group as well as whether rival bidder Svava remains in the picture.
Magellan Financial Group has reported its first half FY25 results while appointing a new chief financial officer and promoting Sophia Rahmani to chief executive.
Schroders Australia has launched two active ETFs and plans to further expand its listed range over the year ahead.
Platform Netwealth has reported its financial results for the first half of FY25, reporting an 80 per cent increase in net flows, with its CEO viewing a “huge opportunity” from private assets.