Member-only story
The Launch of Viridian Asset Management
In recent years, the world of hedge funds has been rapidly evolving, and Asia has emerged as a critical region for these investment vehicles. As the region’s economic dynamics shift, particularly in Japan, India, and South Korea, new hedge funds are finding opportunities that previously seemed uncertain. Viridian Asset Management, led by Pascal Guttieres, is one of the latest hedge funds to seize on these opportunities, placing a significant bet on the recovery of equity capital markets (ECM) across Asia. As Viridian prepares to begin trading, having secured approval from the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission, I find myself intrigued by its strategy and the timing of its launch.
In 2024, the ECM across Asia has faced a sharp decline, driven by several factors including pandemic-related disruptions, trade wars, and market volatility. Yet, like all downturns, this one has the potential to be followed by a rebound. And that’s exactly what Pascal Guttieres and his team at Viridian are betting on. With an initial capital base of $100-$200 million, backed by a European insurer and other high-net-worth investors, the fund is focusing on markets like Japan, India, and South Korea. These regions, despite their recent setbacks, are poised for a resurgence in stock sales and capital raising activities.
