Scarcity Partners acquires 30% interest, with representation on the Copia Board
Melbourne, Australia – 1 October 2026
Copia Investment Partners, a leading investment management group, has secured a strategic investment from Scarcity Partners, which has acquired a 30% interest in the group.
Building on Copia’s strong track record, Scarcity brings long-term capital, deep funds management experience and extensive industry relationships to the well-established platform. It will accelerate the group’s current plans to expand distribution, enhance scalability and deepen support for its existing suite of affiliate fund managers. The group will also explore adding new specialist managers, where there is a strong strategic fit.
Founded in 2000, Copia selectively partners with specialist investment managers. It provides distribution, marketing, responsible entity services, governance and operational support, enabling its managers to focus on investment performance while broadening their reach across Australia’s adviser and investor market. Copia had $9 billion in funds under distribution across five affiliates and 13 strategies as at 31 August 2026.
Copia’s investment partners include Artisan Partners, Chester Asset Management, HSBC Asset Management, Mutual Limited and OC Funds Management. Their strategies span Australian and global equities, cash and fixed income, and global listed infrastructure.
The investment follows an extensive process by Copia to find a strategic investor aligned with its growth plans and vision. Copia will continue to operate autonomously, with its executive team retaining majority ownership and responsibility for day-to-day operations. Its affiliate managers will retain control of their investment approaches.
Scarcity Partners’ Founding Partner, Matthew Webb will join the Copia Holding Company Board as a non-executive director. As part of the process Peter Polson will step down from the board with Bruce Loveday remaining as Chair.
Mr Webb has more than 25 years’ experience in asset management, including 15 years at Magellan Asset Management, where he helped build its Australian wealth business and support its international expansion.
Sam Baillieu, Chief Executive Officer of Copia Investment Partners, said:
“Copia has always focused on partnering with high-quality managers who bring specialist investment expertise to clients. We provide the distribution and operational support that allows them to concentrate on managing their portfolios, serving clients, and building lasting businesses. Scarcity shares that long-term approach and understands what it takes to grow a funds management platform.
“We’re excited by the opportunity to continue building momentum with Scarcity. We wanted a strategic investor who understood our model and could help us take it further. Scarcity brings deep industry experience and the relationships that will help us pursue new opportunities in Australia and internationally.”
Adrian Whittingham, Managing Partner of Scarcity Partners, said:
“Copia occupies an important position within the Australian investment management landscape having truly built a scalable growth platform. The business has built deep relationships with asset managers, advisers and platforms over many years and plays a critical role in helping specialist investment firms scale.
“We are attracted to businesses with strong strategic positions, recurring revenue streams and multiple avenues for future growth. Copia demonstrates each of these characteristics and has developed a reputation for professionalism, outstanding client service, and operational excellence.”
The purchase price and other financial terms have not been disclosed.
Updated: 01 Oct 2026
