Nordea Asset Management (NAM) has unveiled its first two mandates in New Zealand with Pathfinder Asset Management (Pathfinder), “a leading ethical investment manager dedicated to driving lasting positive change through responsible investing”, according to a statement by the asset manager. 

The appointment follows a process by Pathfinder, where over 70 managers were evaluated for ethical alignment, quantitative capability, and sustainability leadership. NAM emerged as the leader, “offering a customised approach that allows Pathfinder to deliver world-class global equity capability to its clients without compromising its ethical framework”.

Under the mandates, NAM will act as sub-investment manager for Pathfinder’s Responsible Investment fund and Global Water fund. The portfolios will be managed by NAM’s diversified equity team, which has worked together for over 15 years and currently manages over €80bn in AUM in BetaPlus strategies.

The portfolios will be managed using NAM’s BetaPlus framework, which combines quantitative portfolio construction with disciplined risk management and integrated sustainability. These solutions are designed to generate consistent excess alpha through repeatable active strategies, delivered in a cost-efficient manner. The BetaPlus range comprises both traditional and sustainable building blocks.

Christophe Girondel, global head of distribution at Nordea Asset Management said: “We’re proud to partner with Pathfinder Asset Management on this landmark mandate, marking Nordea Asset Management’s entry into the New Zealand market.”

“Pathfinder’s strong commitment to ethical and ESG investing aligns closely with our own philosophy, and together we’re bringing a differentiated BetaPlus framework that blends alpha generation and risk management with sustainability integration. We look forward to supporting Pathfinder in delivering strong outcomes aligned with long-term sustainable investment goals.”

John Berry, CEO and co-founder of Pathfinder Asset Management, commented: “We selected Nordea Asset Management (NAM) for their world-class quantitative and responsible investment expertise.”

“By combining Pathfinder’s ethical standards with NAM’s global ESG horsepower and institutional-grade systems, we strengthen our mission to generate both individual wealth and collective wellbeing for our members. Ultimately, this partnership is expected to deliver more consistent global equity returns and stronger risk management to improve investment quality, without compromising Pathfinder’s ethical integrity.”