The NZ Shareholders Association (NZSA) has changed its name to Investors Association New Zealand to reflect changes in the way people invest their money.
“Many New Zealanders see themselves as investors, not only shareholders,” Investors Association chief executive Oliver Mander said, referring to the growth of KiwiSaver and other types of investment funds.
“The pace of change in capital markets, shifting investor expectations and increasing corporate governance complexity reinforce the importance of an independent voice for investors.”
He said the renamed organisation will also take on an expanded advocacy role as investment in funds was different from the ownership of shares in a company.
“The rights of shareholders and the rights of investors in funds are very different, and that’s one exactly why we feel we need we have a role to play in advocating … giving investors the opportunity to better scrutinize the funds that they’re invested in.”
He said the association will continue to serve the shareholders it had represented for 25 years (since 2001).
“Fundamentally we have had a positive influence on New Zealand’s capital markets over the years, and we think we can evidence that. So really, this is a continuation of that journey, but it’s it’s a journey that is it really reflects how how New Zealand is invested today.”
Investors Association’s estimates of New Zealand’s financial investment indicates a marked decline in the proportion of traditional DIY investment, to 21 percent in 2026 from 38 percent in 2015, versus increased investment managed funds, discretionary investment management services and KiwiSaver.
“As New Zealand seeks to strengthen its public capital markets and attract investment, protecting shareholder rights and maintaining investor confidence must remain at the heart of these efforts,” Mander said.
“Investors still need a voice, clear information and confidence that their interests are being represented.”
Investor Association chair Sam Dixon said the NZSA will continue, including independent company assessments, engagement with boards and advocacy for shareholder rights.
“A number of developments were reshaping the environment for New Zealand investors, including changing patterns of company ownership, the growing influence of institutional and offshore investors, technological change and ongoing debate about the future structure and competitiveness of New Zealand’s capital markets,” Dixon said.
“Strong capital markets depend on investor confidence. Investors need to know their rights will be respected, companies will be held accountable and they will have access to the information they need to make informed investment decisions.”