Australia's largest investment funds plan entry into India, meet NIIF

These funds collectively manage assets worth Rs 38 trillion, see scope in India despite Covid

Australia’s largest investment funds, collectively managing assets of more than A$736 billion (Rs 38 trillion) on Thursday met National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) on Thursday to explore investment opportunities in India.

The virtual delegation included several of Australia’s largest superannuation (pension) funds and the Future Fund, Australia’s independently managed sovereign wealth fund.

Australia’s high commissioner Barry O’Farrell AO said that despite the Covid-19 pandemic, there are real opportunities for investors in India.

“In responding to the economic challenges of Covid-19, we have seen India adopt fundamental reforms that have opened up its sectors to new investment,” O’Farrell said.

“There will be high growth in demand for infrastructure as India looks to support its economic recovery, presenting opportunities for Australian investors,” he added.

According to the Willis Towers Watson Global Pensions Asset Study, Australia finished 2019 with the world’s fourth-largest pension (superannuation) market in the world, valued at australian dollars 2.95 trillion (Rs 150 trillion).

Organised by the Australian government and the NIIF, the virtual delegation followed in-person tours to New Delhi and Mumbai in 2018 and 2019.