Media release | SW assists Blackwattle establish new generation fund manager
26/05/2023
Australia, 24 May 2023 – SW Accountants & Advisors (SW), a leading financial advisory firm, is pleased to announce its successful collaboration with Blackwattle Investment Partners (Blackwattle) in establishing what has been described as a ‘new generation Australian fund Manager’.
Over eight months, SW worked closely with the Blackwattle team and Hamilton Locke lawyers to provide a seamless and efficient establishment of the investment firm, ensuring that all aspects of the Group’s goals were addressed and that Blackwattle had a solid foundation to build upon.
SW involvement was key in assisting Blackwattle’s implementation of their long term incentive plan which underpinned Blackwattle’s key strategy of striving to be ‘”the most aligned fund manager in the country”. SW also facilitated the establishment of a corporate structure appropriate to the long term success of the funds management business.
Facilitating the Blackwattle difference
One of the key areas of focus was providing expert tax advice in relation to the start-up employee share scheme (ESS) provisions. A significant strategy of the fund is the requirement that portfolio managers invest in the funds they are managing, so the employee long term incentive plans were a crucial aspect.
“We invest alongside our investors and clients, with personal capital committed and corporate profits reinvested into our portfolios, there is no personal trading,” said Blackwattle Managing Director and CIO Michael Skinner. “Having significant ‘skin in the game’ means we are 100 per cent aligned to the common interest of our clients, which is uncommon in the Australian funds management industry,” he added.
SW advised on and reviewed employment agreements, employee share option plan rules, independent director agreements, and shareholder agreements to ensure compliance and optimal outcomes for Blackwattle and its investors.
Leveraging his extensive experience and expertise in the funds management industry, SW Director Simon Tucker led the advisory for Blackwattle, working with the SW team to bring valuable insights and strategic advice to Blackwattle.
“We are thrilled to have been a part of Blackwattle Investment Partners’ journey from the very beginning,” Tucker said. “Our collaboration enabled us to provide tailored solutions and guidance, supporting the firm’s growth and ensuring a solid foundation for success. We are grateful for the trust placed in us and look forward to continuing our partnership.”
The partnership between the companies was initiated by Blackwattle’s legal team Hamilton Locke, who recommended SW based on their excellent reputation in the funds management industry. The successful completion of this engagement further strengthens SW’s position as a trusted advisor in the financial sector.
Blackwattle launched with capital backing for more than five years, distribution of four investment portfolios from day one, a five person board as well as third party governance with independent chair-headed ESG and Investment Councils.
Key professionals from SW Accountants & Advisors included Justin Batticciotto, Tom Warrington and Dennis Low.
For more information about SW Accountants & Advisors and their range of services, please visit sw.com.au or contact Amanda Lee.
About SW Accountants & Advisors:
SW Accountants & Advisors is a leading financial advisory firm providing a comprehensive range of accounting and advisory services to clients across various industries. With a team of seasoned professionals and a client-centric approach, SW delivers tailored solutions and strategic advice to help businesses achieve their goals.
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