Pensions for Purpose podcast: Investing in the UK

28/5/25
10 min
Public Equity
Insight

Judith's main message is:

"The UK, AIM in particular, really needs to be part of an asset allocators thoughts at the moment. It's cheaper than it's ever been in my lifetime. It provides excellent diversification in terms of investment, and it's right in our back door - there are great companies that deserve our investment."

Listen now

Download the transcript

Timestamps

01:10 – Sets the scene on AIM and why initiatives like the Mansion House Compact have been urging pension funds to invest here

“It’s cheaper, it’s a growth market, and it outperforms over the long-term.”

03:46 – Highlights the pros of investing in the UK, such as the minimal impact of tariffs on the market and greater M&A activity  

05:03 – One of the issues with AIM is that it is the number of companies within it is falling

06:53 – Highlights the benefit of investing in AIM – a true supporter of local economies

08:52 – Explores how UK investment works with sustainability and impact goals

“If you do a little bit of digging, you can find some really great climate-focused companies.”

11:14 – How to encourage the companies in AIM to consider and engage with climate change initiatives

14:16 – The topic of mandation for pension schemes is discussed. Judith believes education on these markets is more important than mandating investment into them

17:23 – Explains how a place-based strategy could work when investing in AIM and the UK as companies can be found across the UK, not just in London

20:48 – Laasya and Judith discuss investing in listed versus unlisted markets, especially the benefits of investing in listed markets like AIM

“I think the benefit of the AIM market it that, as you say, you’ve got the liquidity, you’ve got the visibility, you’ve got the governance.”

23:50 – the political landscape is explored, particularly how the UK markets compare to those of its peers, such as the US, Canada and Australia

25:55 – Judith highlights the one main takeaway she wants listeners to take from this podcast

Contents
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Judith MacKenzie joined Laasya Shekaran and David Brown from Pensions for Purpose to talk about investing in the UK, and particularly in smaller companies listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM).

Judith's main message is:

"The UK, AIM in particular, really needs to be part of an asset allocators thoughts at the moment. It's cheaper than it's ever been in my lifetime. It provides excellent diversification in terms of investment, and it's right in our back door - there are great companies that deserve our investment."

Listen now

Download the transcript

Timestamps

01:10 – Sets the scene on AIM and why initiatives like the Mansion House Compact have been urging pension funds to invest here

“It’s cheaper, it’s a growth market, and it outperforms over the long-term.”

03:46 – Highlights the pros of investing in the UK, such as the minimal impact of tariffs on the market and greater M&A activity  

05:03 – One of the issues with AIM is that it is the number of companies within it is falling

06:53 – Highlights the benefit of investing in AIM – a true supporter of local economies

08:52 – Explores how UK investment works with sustainability and impact goals

“If you do a little bit of digging, you can find some really great climate-focused companies.”

11:14 – How to encourage the companies in AIM to consider and engage with climate change initiatives

14:16 – The topic of mandation for pension schemes is discussed. Judith believes education on these markets is more important than mandating investment into them

17:23 – Explains how a place-based strategy could work when investing in AIM and the UK as companies can be found across the UK, not just in London

20:48 – Laasya and Judith discuss investing in listed versus unlisted markets, especially the benefits of investing in listed markets like AIM

“I think the benefit of the AIM market it that, as you say, you’ve got the liquidity, you’ve got the visibility, you’ve got the governance.”

23:50 – the political landscape is explored, particularly how the UK markets compare to those of its peers, such as the US, Canada and Australia

25:55 – Judith highlights the one main takeaway she wants listeners to take from this podcast

We are delighted to announce that Mark Gross, Partner and Head of Development Capital, has been named Equity Investor of the year at the HealthInvestor Power List 2024 Awards.

Following Mark’s achievement last year when he won the “Leading Investor” award at HealthInvestor’s Power50, this year’s win further highlights his continued success and expertise in investing across the healthcare sector. 

The judges praised Mark for finding success both in value and volume this year, delivering good returns and growth. They were impressed by how Mark has continued to strengthen a strong track record with further growth in the team and new funds securing further backing. We extend our thanks to Mark and the Downing Development Capital team for their continued dedication and support in expanding our healthcare investment activities with a focus on quality, performance and reputation. 

Congratulations Mark!

Development Capital  

Downing Development Capital is an award-winning investor focused on investment opportunities into asset-backed operating businesses with downside protection. Typical sectors they invest in include healthcare, specialist education, hospitality, leisure and IT infrastructure.

Learn more about our Development Capital team

Judith MacKenzie joined Laasya Shekaran and David Brown from Pensions for Purpose to talk about investing in the UK, and particularly in smaller companies listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM).

Judith's main message is:

"The UK, AIM in particular, really needs to be part of an asset allocators thoughts at the moment. It's cheaper than it's ever been in my lifetime. It provides excellent diversification in terms of investment, and it's right in our back door - there are great companies that deserve our investment."

Listen now

Download the transcript

Timestamps

01:10 – Sets the scene on AIM and why initiatives like the Mansion House Compact have been urging pension funds to invest here

“It’s cheaper, it’s a growth market, and it outperforms over the long-term.”

03:46 – Highlights the pros of investing in the UK, such as the minimal impact of tariffs on the market and greater M&A activity  

05:03 – One of the issues with AIM is that it is the number of companies within it is falling

06:53 – Highlights the benefit of investing in AIM – a true supporter of local economies

08:52 – Explores how UK investment works with sustainability and impact goals

“If you do a little bit of digging, you can find some really great climate-focused companies.”

11:14 – How to encourage the companies in AIM to consider and engage with climate change initiatives

14:16 – The topic of mandation for pension schemes is discussed. Judith believes education on these markets is more important than mandating investment into them

17:23 – Explains how a place-based strategy could work when investing in AIM and the UK as companies can be found across the UK, not just in London

20:48 – Laasya and Judith discuss investing in listed versus unlisted markets, especially the benefits of investing in listed markets like AIM

“I think the benefit of the AIM market it that, as you say, you’ve got the liquidity, you’ve got the visibility, you’ve got the governance.”

23:50 – the political landscape is explored, particularly how the UK markets compare to those of its peers, such as the US, Canada and Australia

25:55 – Judith highlights the one main takeaway she wants listeners to take from this podcast

Pensions for Purpose podcast: Investing in the UK
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Torsten Mack, Investment Director at Downing, said:

"We are proud to support this exceptional management team, whose strong track record positions them well to build a new business in dementia care. This needs-based sector is underpinned by a lack of quality supply and we are investing in Fortava Healthcare to set and deliver high standards, and to help make a difference."

Johann van Zyl, CEO at Fortava, added:

"I’m thrilled to be working with Jamie, as we share the same values. We plan to grow Fortava into a leading provider of dementia care over the next five to seven years. But growth isn’t our primary focus—our goal is to deliver outstanding care and foster a joyful, supportive environment for both residents and staff. We’re delighted to be partnering with Downing who also share our values and we look forward to this journey with them."

Jamie Stuart, CFO at Fortava, commented:

“For me, it's about being more than just another care home provider. While dementia care in the UK is generally of a good standard, we want to set ourselves apart with a fresh approach. That’s why, after over 25 years in banking, I chose to partner with Johann and Downing on this venture.”

Judith's main message is:

"The UK, AIM in particular, really needs to be part of an asset allocators thoughts at the moment. It's cheaper than it's ever been in my lifetime. It provides excellent diversification in terms of investment, and it's right in our back door - there are great companies that deserve our investment."

Listen now

Download the transcript

Timestamps

01:10 – Sets the scene on AIM and why initiatives like the Mansion House Compact have been urging pension funds to invest here

“It’s cheaper, it’s a growth market, and it outperforms over the long-term.”

03:46 – Highlights the pros of investing in the UK, such as the minimal impact of tariffs on the market and greater M&A activity  

05:03 – One of the issues with AIM is that it is the number of companies within it is falling

06:53 – Highlights the benefit of investing in AIM – a true supporter of local economies

08:52 – Explores how UK investment works with sustainability and impact goals

“If you do a little bit of digging, you can find some really great climate-focused companies.”

11:14 – How to encourage the companies in AIM to consider and engage with climate change initiatives

14:16 – The topic of mandation for pension schemes is discussed. Judith believes education on these markets is more important than mandating investment into them

17:23 – Explains how a place-based strategy could work when investing in AIM and the UK as companies can be found across the UK, not just in London

20:48 – Laasya and Judith discuss investing in listed versus unlisted markets, especially the benefits of investing in listed markets like AIM

“I think the benefit of the AIM market it that, as you say, you’ve got the liquidity, you’ve got the visibility, you’ve got the governance.”

23:50 – the political landscape is explored, particularly how the UK markets compare to those of its peers, such as the US, Canada and Australia

25:55 – Judith highlights the one main takeaway she wants listeners to take from this podcast

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Downing LLP does not provide advice or make personal recommendations and investors are strongly urged to seek independent advice before investing. Investments offered on this website carry a higher risk than many other types of investment and prospective investors should be aware that capital is at risk and the value of their investment may go down as well as up. Any investment should only be made on the basis of the relevant product literature and your attention is drawn to the risk, fees and taxation factors contained therein. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances of each investor and may be subject to change in the future. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Downing LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Firm Reference Number 545025). Registered in England No. OC341575. Registered Office: Downing, 10 Lower Thames Street, London, EC3R 6AF.

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