Barita Investments Limited is sharpening its focus on strategic evolution and digital transformation, even as recent acquisition efforts fell through. The company remains undeterred, signaling a broader long-term strategy that extends beyond traditional securities and into alternative investments, real estate development, and private credit.
At its annual general meeting, Barita’s CEO Ramon Small-Ferguson avoided direct commentary on the now-defunct deal to acquire a 30% stake in Clarien Group from NCB Financial Group—a move that would have positioned Barita as Clarien’s majority shareholder. Instead, he pivoted the conversation to the firm’s growth blueprint, reaffirming that Barita is still actively evaluating new markets and combination opportunities.
“We continue to be very open to inorganic expansion,” said Small-Ferguson. “Our eyes are set on meaningful value creation, whether through market entry or strategic partnerships.”
Despite challenges in the alternative investment segment, Barita’s portfolio in this space contributed a substantial $3.5 billion—or 72%—of its $4.9 billion investment income in 2024. While some softening is anticipated, the company remains committed to leveraging this segment, particularly through upcoming developments managed by MJR Holdings, its real estate subsidiary. Two projects are already in motion: a light warehouse facility and a mixed-use commercial-residential development, targeted for completion by 2026–2027.
Barita has also emerged as a key facilitator in the private credit space, assisting clients in raising over US$150 million and planning to launch a dedicated fund to broaden participation in this alternative class—pending regulatory greenlight.
Financially, the firm is well-positioned. With a capital base of $35 billion and over $405 billion in assets under management as of 2024, Barita holds one of the strongest financial foundations in the securities industry. This strength has enabled the company to take a measured approach to risk and capital deployment, anchoring its strategy in resilience and adaptability.
Looking ahead, Barita is pushing toward a digital-first transformation. Small-Ferguson outlined ongoing investments in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and a centralized enterprise data platform—all designed to streamline operations and enhance client experience as Barita transitions into a full-fledged financial holding company.
“Our focus is on seamless client connectivity and digital empowerment across the Barita Financial Group,” he said. “The goal is to bring banking and investment closer together, so our clients benefit from a more integrated financial ecosystem.”
As economic conditions evolve, Barita is positioning itself not just as a player in traditional markets, but as a forward-facing institution capable of navigating complexity with innovation and discipline.
