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Investment

Barrenjoey acquires, expands in Hong Kong

Barrenjoey has set up shop in Hong Kong, offering Australian and New Zealand equities sales, trading, and research services following the acquisition of a local business.

The firm took over Forsyth Barr Asia from its partner Forsyth Barr to make the move possible.

Forsyth Barr Asia is an institutional advisory business focused on the Chinese market, offering services that include macroeconomic and company analysis.

"Acquiring Forsyth Barr's existing operations in Hong Kong enabled us to accelerate our presence in Hong Kong, and we're grateful for the collaboration with Forsyth Barr," Barrenjoey equities chief operating officer Klaudia Szargawinska said.

Barrenjoey head of equities Chris Williams said the establishment of the Hong Kong office brings the local equities team closer to the firm's Asian client base.

"Hong Kong is a key global financial centre and our presence ensures proximity to our clients in the region, underlining our commitment to this important market," he said.

Barrenjoey has five offerings: research, equities, fixed income, corporate finance, and private capital. It launched in 2021, led by chief executive Brain Benari with the backing of Magellan Financial Group and Barclays.

Last June, the firm expanded in Abu Dhabi to offer fixed income sales and trading services.

Philip Lowe joined Barrenjoey's board last September as the third independent non-executive director. He is joined by former politician Kelly O'Dwyer and David Gonski. Lowe was the governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia from 2016 to 2023.

Read more: BarrenjoeyForsyth BarrForsyth Barr AsiaPhilip LoweBarclaysBrain BenariChris WilliamsDavid GonskiKelly O'DwyerKlaudia SzargawinskaMagellan Financial GroupReserve Bank of Australia