Navigator Global Investments (NGI) reported a 7% rise in total firm-level assets under management (AUM) to USD 86 billion in the June 2025 quarter, driven by strong performance from Lighthouse Partners and strategic private markets.
- Total NGI firm-level AUM increased 7% to USD 86 billion
- Ownership-adjusted AUM rose 2% to USD 28 billion
- Lighthouse Partners’ hedge fund AUM grew 9% despite slight quarterly outflows
- NGI Strategic Partner Firms’ AUM up 5% for the quarter and 14% for FY25
- Private markets continue to attract strong inflows amid geopolitical uncertainty
Robust Growth in a Volatile Environment
Navigator Global Investments (NGI) has demonstrated resilience and growth in the June 2025 quarter, with total firm-level assets under management (AUM) climbing 7% to USD 86.3 billion (AUD 131 billion). This increase reflects NGI’s strategic positioning amid ongoing geopolitical and market volatility, which continues to create opportunities for active asset managers.
Ownership-adjusted AUM, which accounts for NGI’s stake in its partner firms, rose 2% to USD 27.7 billion, marking a 6% increase for the financial year. This steady growth underscores NGI’s ability to navigate challenging market conditions while maintaining investor confidence.
Lighthouse Partners, Hedge Funds Defy Outflows
Lighthouse Partners (LHP), NGI’s flagship hedge fund platform, experienced a nuanced quarter. While total AUM slightly decreased by 0.4% to USD 15.9 billion, the hedge fund segment within LHP grew 9% to over USD 4 billion. This growth was driven by strong investment performance and selective inflows into higher fee-yielding strategies, offsetting outflows from the lower fee Managed Account Services business.
The resilience of hedge fund strategies in uncertain markets highlights investor demand for active management approaches that can adapt to volatility. LHP’s ability to attract inflows despite broader fundraising challenges speaks to the quality and appeal of its offerings.
Strategic Partner Firms and Private Markets Lead the Charge
NGI’s Strategic Partner Firms collectively increased their AUM by 5% during the quarter and an impressive 14% over the financial year. This growth was fueled by a combination of positive net inflows and strong investment performance, particularly within private markets.
Private markets AUM surged by 14% in the quarter, reflecting sustained investor appetite for alternative assets that provide portfolio diversification and resilience against global uncertainty. NGI anticipates continued inflows as these firms progress through their fundraising cycles, reinforcing the strategic importance of private markets within NGI’s portfolio.
Looking Ahead, Navigating Uncertainty with Active Management
NGI’s update emphasizes the ongoing challenges in the global investment landscape, including geopolitical tensions and market volatility. Yet, it also highlights the firm’s strategic focus on high conviction, fee-yielding strategies and private market investments as key drivers of growth.
As NGI continues to support its partner firms and expand its footprint in alternative asset classes, investors will be watching closely for detailed performance data in the upcoming semi-annual results. The company’s ability to sustain inflows and deliver strong returns will be critical in maintaining its growth trajectory amid an uncertain macroeconomic backdrop.
Bottom Line?
NGI’s steady AUM growth amid market turbulence signals confidence in active management and private markets, but upcoming performance disclosures will be crucial for sustaining momentum.
Questions in the middle?
- How will NGI’s partner firms sustain fundraising momentum in a challenging capital environment?
- What impact will geopolitical risks have on NGI’s hedge fund and private market strategies going forward?
- Can Lighthouse Partners reverse the slight quarterly AUM decline while maintaining hedge fund growth?