Tuesday 29 July 2025

Forsyth Barr Announces Proposed Strategic Investment by Mercury Capital

Forsyth Barr has announced that it has entered into an agreement with Sydney-based private equity firm Mercury Capital, which is offering to acquire a 25-30% shareholding in the company from the firm’s shareholders.

The offer is subject to shareholder approval and other conditions, with completion expected during August.

Mercury Capital is a highly successful private equity firm managing more than $2 billion in funds. Founded in 2010, it specialises in providing growth capital to established businesses across Australia and New Zealand. The firm has strong New Zealand connections, with its founder and around half of its staff being New Zealanders.

“This is a highly positive step for the firm, our staff and clients. Mercury Capital’s investment reflects confidence in our strategy, market position and future growth,” said Forsyth Barr Chairman, David Kirk.

Forsyth Barr was founded in Dunedin 90 years ago and has a long-standing tradition of staff ownership and has evolved over time to today being owned by over 300 staff members. This proposed partnership is described by the Board as a natural next step in the company’s ongoing evolution.

Forsyth Barr’s Managing Director Neil Paviour-Smith said, “We are excited that Mercury Capital is seeking to partner with us. We believe their expertise and experience will support the capabilities we have built up as a firm over a long period of time.”

“Mercury Capital shares our view that trusted personalised advice is more important than ever to help clients navigate a world of accelerating change, disruption and opportunity,” he said.