The joint venture, Gottex SR Funds, will offer multi-asset investment products to Kiwi investors.

Gottex said it meant that clients would get Gottex’s experience in research and portfolio construction, as well as Staples Rodway’s financial advisory services.

Matt Gottschalk, chief executive of Gottex Asia, said it was another step in the firm’s growth strategy in this part of the world.

“We have been expanding in the Asia-Pacific region for some time and were looking for a partner in New Zealand, where we see significant opportunities for growth. We were attracted by the reputation and governance structure of Staples Rodway and its excellent asset management team.”

Gottex said the products it would offer would be unique in New Zealand.

Staples Rodway director and now Gottex’s New Zealand managing director Guy Holroyd said: “ “We are seeing increased interest in our multi-asset fund, particularly from financial advisor groups and institutions who are looking to access reputable international portfolios, backed by the knowledge, expertise and credibility of a fund manager such as Gottex.”

Gottex will appoint two new directors to the joint venture’s board and will become a shareholder.   Gottex Fund Management Sarl, a Gottex company, has been appointed as sub-investment manager under the terms of a sub-investment management agreement

The Gottex Group manages about US$7.0 billion in assets.