South Africa’s financial landscape is home to some of the most robust and reputable investment companies in the world. The biggest investment companies in South Africa are known for their strong financial performance, diverse investment options, and commitment to helping clients achieve their financial goals. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out, understanding who these companies are and what they offer can help you make informed decisions about where to invest your money.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the biggest investment companies in South Africa, exploring their histories, assets under management (AUM), and the unique value they bring to the table. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of which firms align with your investment goals.
Why These Companies Stand Out
The biggest investment companies in South Africa have earned their reputations through consistent performance, innovative strategies, and a commitment to client success. They offer a wide range of investment products, from equities and bonds to real estate and private equity. What sets them apart is their ability to adapt to market changes while maintaining a focus on long-term growth.
Here’s a closer look at the top 20 firms that dominate the South African investment scene:
The Top 20 Investment Companies in South Africa
1. Allan Gray
Allan Gray is a household name in South Africa, known for its disciplined, long-term investment approach. With over R500 billion in assets under management (AUM) as of February 2025, the firm offers a variety of funds, including equities, balanced funds, and fixed-income options.
- AUM: R500 billion
- Founded: 1973
2. Coronation Fund Managers
Coronation is renowned for its strong equity and balanced funds, which consistently outperform market averages. The firm manages over R600 billion in assets and caters to both individual and institutional investors.
- AUM: R600 billion
- Founded: 1993
3. Ninety One
Formerly known as Investec Asset Management, Ninety One is a global leader in emerging markets. With over R2.5 trillion in AUM, the firm offers a diverse range of investment solutions, including equities, bonds, and multi-asset funds.
- AUM: R2.5 trillion
- Founded: 1991
4. Sanlam Investment Management
Sanlam is one of South Africa’s oldest and most trusted financial institutions. It manages over R1 trillion in assets and provides a wide array of investment options, from equities to fixed-income products.
- AUM: R1 trillion
- Founded: 1918
5. Old Mutual Wealth Management
Old Mutual has been a cornerstone of South Africa’s financial sector for over a century. The firm focuses on responsible investing and offers a variety of products, including equities, property, and fixed-income funds.
- AUM: R1 trillion
- Founded: 1845
6. Investec
Investec is a specialist bank and wealth management firm that caters to high-net-worth individuals and institutions. With over R700 billion in AUM, it’s known for its innovative solutions and global reach.
- AUM: R700 billion
- Founded: 1974
7. RMB Holdings
RMB Holdings focuses on financial services and has a strong track record of delivering long-term value. The firm manages approximately R150 billion in assets.
- AUM: R150 billion
- Founded: 1987
8. Remgro Limited
Remgro is a diversified investment holding company with interests in healthcare, consumer goods, and financial services. It’s known for its prudent investment strategies and strong management.
- AUM: R120 billion
- Founded: 1940
9. PSG Group
PSG Group is a diversified investment firm with interests in financial services, agriculture, and education. It’s known for its entrepreneurial approach and value creation for shareholders.
- AUM: R75 billion
- Founded: 1995
10. African Rainbow Capital
Founded by Patrice Motsepe, African Rainbow Capital focuses on inclusive economic growth and transformation. The firm manages approximately R12 billion in assets.
- AUM: R12 billion
- Founded: 2015
11. Stanlib
Stanlib is one of South Africa’s largest asset managers, offering unit trusts, real estate, and offshore investments. It manages over R600 billion in assets.
- AUM: R600 billion
- Founded: 2002
12. Absa Asset Management
Absa Asset Management is known for its digital innovation and diverse investment solutions. The firm manages approximately R400 billion in assets.
- AUM: R400 billion
- Founded: 1985
13. Momentum Metropolitan Holdings
Momentum offers a wide range of financial services, including investment management and retirement planning. It manages over R600 billion in assets.
- AUM: R600 billion
- Founded: 2010
14. Ethos Private Equity
Ethos is a leading private equity firm with a focus on healthcare, consumer products, and technology. It manages approximately R20 billion in assets.
- AUM: R20 billion
- Founded: 1984
15. Futuregrowth Asset Management
Futuregrowth specializes in fixed-interest and development-focused funds. It’s a leader in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing, with over R200 billion in AUM.
- AUM: R200 billion
- Founded: 1994
16. Fairtree
Fairtree is known for its strong performance across hedge funds, unit trusts, and private equity. It manages approximately R100 billion in assets.
- AUM: R100 billion
- Founded: 2003
17. Truffle Asset Management
Truffle Asset Management is renowned for its consistent performance and manages around R80 billion in assets.
- AUM: R80 billion
- Founded: 2008
18. LeapFrog Investments
LeapFrog focuses on impact investing in emerging markets, with a portfolio that includes financial services, healthcare, and climate solutions.
- AUM: $2 billion USD
- Founded: 2007
19. Sygnia Asset Management
Sygnia is known for its low-cost, technology-driven investment solutions, including index-tracking funds. It manages over R290 billion in assets.
- AUM: R290 billion
- Founded: 2006
20. Investment Solutions Limited
Investment Solutions Limited is a top provider of multi-manager investment portfolios, managing approximately R340 billion in assets.
- AUM: R340 billion
- Founded: 1997
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Final Thoughts
The biggest investment companies in South Africa offer a wealth of opportunities for investors looking to grow their portfolios. Whether you’re interested in equities, bonds, real estate, or impact investing, there’s a firm on this list that can help you achieve your financial goals.
Take the time to research each company, consult with a financial advisor, and choose the one that aligns with your investment strategy. Your financial future starts with the right partner—so invest wisely!
Biggest Investment Companies in South Africa
| Rank | Company Name | AUM (Feb 2025) | Founded |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Allan Gray | Over R500B | 1973 |
| 2 | Coronation Fund Managers | Over R600B | 1993 |
| 3 | Ninety One | Over R2.5T | 1991 |
| 4 | Sanlam Investment Management | Over R1T | 1918 |
| 5 | Old Mutual Wealth Management | Over R1T | 1845 |
| 6 | Investec | Over R700B | 1974 |
| 7 | RMB Holdings | Approx. R150B | 1987 |
| 8 | Remgro Limited | Approx. R120B | 1940 |
| 9 | PSG Group | Over R75B | 1995 |
| 10 | African Rainbow Capital | Approx. R12B | 2015 |
| 11 | Stanlib | Over R600B | 2002 |
| 12 | Absa Asset Management | Approx. R400B | 1985 |
| 13 | Momentum | Over R600B | 2010 |
| 14 | Ethos Private Equity | Approx. R20B | 1984 |
| 15 | Futuregrowth Asset Management | Over R200B | 1994 |
| 16 | Fairtree | Approx. R100B | 2003 |
| 17 | Truffle Asset Management | Around R80B | 2008 |
| 18 | LeapFrog Investments | Over $2B USD | 2007 |
| 19 | Sygnia Asset Management | Over R290B | 2006 |
| 20 | Investment Solutions Limited | Approx. R340B | 1997 |
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