DWS Group, the European asset management company associated with Deutsche Bank, has outlined its intention to acquire a 40% stake in Nippon Life India AIF Management (NIAIF), subject to regulatory approval.
DWS and Nippon Life India Asset Management (NAMI) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) under which they will jointly introduce passive investment products in the Indian market and for Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS) investors, with collaboration extending across product development and distribution.
The partnership also includes plans to create and distribute actively managed mutual funds that focus on Indian investment opportunities.
These funds are expected to be marketed internationally through DWS’s established distribution channels, broadening access to investment strategies centred on India.
NIAIF operates across several segments, including private credit, listed equities, real estate, and venture capital.
The firm is looking to expand its range of alternative investment products and attract offshore investors by taking advantage of DWS’s international reach.
Both companies have agreed not to disclose financial details of the planned investment. The transaction will proceed pending clearance from relevant regulators.
DWS CEO Stefan Hoops said: “We are thrilled to partner with NAMI to invest in a well-established franchise to jointly address the growing demand for long-term investments into the Indian economy. The envisaged agreements tackle three of our priorities: drive growth in Alternatives and Passive, deliver on our promise to leverage our strong partnerships in Asia, and pursue our ambition to become ‘top 5 in top 5’.”
Nippon Life India Asset Management executive director & CEO Sundeep Sikka said: “By bringing together DWS’ global expertise with our three decades of Indian asset management expertise, we aim to build a strong and scalable alternatives franchise that attracts both domestic and international investors.
“At the same time, our partnership in Passive strategies and Global distribution will allow us to deliver world-class investment access to global and Indian investors. In addition to Japan, this partnership now opens other key global markets for NAMI and positions us as a truly global asset manager.”
