AIA NZ teams up with Smartshares on investment solution for closed unit-linked policies

AIA NZ is pleased to announce a partnership with leading New Zealand investment funds manager, Smartshares Limited (Smartshares) – a subsidiary of NZX.

The partnership ensures an efficient and cost-effective transition of AIA NZ’s $500 million unit-linked policy portfolio into SuperLife funds including NZ Cash, International Equities, Australasian Equities, US Equities, European and Asia Pacific Equities, and International and New Zealand Fixed Income.

Len Elikhis, AIA NZ’s Chief Product & Investments Officer says, “AIA NZ’s partnership with Smartshares has enabled us to optimise our investment strategy to meet the allocation and operational needs of our legacy unit-linked policies.” 

“This is a valued partnership, and we look forward to exploring opportunities to work together to ensure our investment portfolio continues to create enduring value for our customers and shareholders, as well as helping AIA NZ to deliver its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) commitments.”

Smartshares’ Chief Investment Officer, Stuart Millar, says the partnership with AIA NZ demonstrates Smartshares’ ability to provide a total investment solution for all investor types.

“We are delighted to partner with AIA NZ to provide efficient and effective investment solutions for their unit-linked policy holders,” Stuart says.

“Smartshares has been able to create bespoke investment strategies for AIA NZ’s existing range of unit-linked funds, and AIA NZ has gained operational efficiencies by using Smartshares’ platform to automate the allocation of cashflows in an accurate and timely manner.”

These changes do not affect the asset allocations of AIA NZ’s unit-linked policy investors. AIA NZ customers will continue to receive a high level of service and should they have any questions or would like further information are advised to contact AIA NZ directly.