Origo Partners sets up shop in Mongolia

Origo Partners, an AIM-listed private equity firm focused on China-linked core economic growth opportunities, has opened a new office in the Mongolian capital of Ulan Bator and created a new fund, Origo Altai Partners, to invest in the country.


Origo sees Mongolia as a country of significant mineral wealth with resources encompassing gold, iron ore, molybdenum, uranium, oil, copper and coal and exploration licenses covering a third of the country’s approximately more than 1.5 million km2 land area.

The country’s proximity to key markets in Northern China enables the supply of commodities at a comparatively low cost and this competitive advantage will be underpinned by the ongoing development of rail infrastructure in China and anticipated rail approvals and construction in Mongolia.

In November, Origo took a 21 per cent stake in Mongolian mining company Gobi Coal and Energy for a total of $15m. Headquartered in the country’s capital, Gobi holds significant coal resources, leaving it well positioned to capitalise on growing demands from China.

Chris Rynning, CEO of Origo said, “Mongolia is currently the single most attractive private equity destination for investors looking to play a part in natural resources development driven by demand from China. Our new office in Mongolia is part of a longer term strategy to position Origo to play a significant role throughout the China-related supply chain where we currently see the largest China-related investment opportunities in copper, coal, iron ore and related infrastructure.”

Origo offers consultancy services as well as taking equity positions in companies via its funds.

Source: AltAssets.com