In a strategic move, Shaw and Partners Financial Services has acquired a 75% stake in Investment Services Group (ISG) for NZD 67.5 million. ISG is a leading Auckland-based investment firm with more than NZD 7 billion in assets under management across its wealth management, funds management, and investment platform divisions.

ISG’s funds under management are fully annuitized, providing a strong base of recurring revenue and a solid platform for future growth.

This marks a key milestone for Shaw and Partners as it formally enters the New Zealand market and strengthens its presence across the region. The acquisition supports the firm’s broader Trans-Tasman growth ambitions and creates opportunities to expand services and enhance client offerings.

The ISG business will report to Shaw and Partners’ Australian CEO, Earl Evans. The acquisition brings the firm’s total assets under advice close to AUD 45 billion.

“ISG has built an exceptional reputation and platform in New Zealand, which they should be very proud of,” said Earl Evans. “This acquisition represents a powerful alignment of values, vision, and opportunity. With their fully annuitized funds management business and a solid wealth advisory platform, this sets us up to take advantage of major growth opportunities across the Trans-Tasman region.”

The two firms share a client-first approach, an entrepreneurial mindset, and a clear strategic vision. ISG’s diversified model – which includes wealth management, retail and institutional funds through Devon Funds, and a growing investment platform – complements and strengthens Shaw and Partners’ existing offering.

ISG operates two main offices in Auckland’s CBD and Takapuna, along with several regional offices across both the North and South Islands.

“This partnership provides us with the scale, resources, and capital to accelerate our strategic objectives,” said Paul Glass, Executive Chairman of ISG. “We are particularly excited about the growth prospects this unlocks—not just for us, but for our clients, our teams, and the broader market.”

As part of the deal, ISG’s international wealth business, JMI Wealth, will rebrand to Shaw and Partners Financial Services. Devon Funds will continue operating under its existing name, retaining its independence and local leadership. ISG’s investment platform will remain a core part of the group’s offering.

“This is an exciting next chapter,” Glass added. “Partnering with Shaw and Partners allows us to expand without compromising the integrity and independence that are core to our success. Together, we see immense opportunity to grow.”

With a resilient revenue base and scalable infrastructure, ISG adds immediate strength to Shaw and Partners’ trans-Tasman footprint. The combined business is well positioned for long-term growth and to deliver greater value across the region.

The transaction is subject to regulatory approval. 

Shaw and Partners is 100% owned by EFG International.

EFG International is a global private banking group offering private banking and asset management services and is headquartered in Zurich. Its registered shares (EFGN) are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. As a leading Swiss private bank, EFG International has a presence in major financial centres and growth markets. It has strong roots in Switzerland, with Zurich, Geneva and Lugano serving as key hubs for the governance and operation of the bank. EFG International operates in over 40 locations worldwide, with a network spanning Europe, Asia Pacific, the Americas and the Middle East. As at 31 December 2024, EFG International had over 3,100 employees worldwide and CHF 165.5 billion in assets under management.