Investment Strategy
Great Eastern Holdings is the oldest and most established insurance group in Singapore and Malaysia, with a history dating back to 1908. A subsidiary of OCBC Bank, Great Eastern provides life, health, and general insurance products across Southeast Asia. The company’s investment portfolio of approximately $80 billion is managed to support long-duration policyholder obligations while generating competitive returns.
The portfolio is diversified across fixed income, equities, real estate, and alternative investments. Government and corporate bonds form the core allocation, with a bias toward Singapore and Malaysian sovereign and quasi-sovereign securities. Equities include both Singapore-listed holdings and regional Asian markets. Real estate is a meaningful allocation, with Great Eastern owning prime commercial properties in Singapore.
Great Eastern allocates approximately 8% of its portfolio to alternatives, spanning private equity, private credit, infrastructure, and real estate funds. The company has been gradually expanding this allocation as it seeks to enhance returns and diversify beyond traditional asset classes. The alternatives program includes commitments to both regional Asian managers and global platforms.
How to Approach
GPs should approach Great Eastern’s investment management team in Singapore. The company’s investment professionals evaluate opportunities across asset classes and geographies, with a natural orientation toward Asia-Pacific strategies. Managers with ASEAN market expertise, infrastructure capabilities, or private credit strategies suited to the Asian market will find alignment. The diligence process is methodical, reflecting the company’s conservative institutional culture and regulatory requirements under the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Great Eastern's investment approach?
Great Eastern manages an investment portfolio of approximately $80 billion across its life insurance operations in Singapore and Malaysia. The portfolio is invested primarily in fixed income and equities, with approximately 8% allocated to alternatives including private equity, real estate, and infrastructure. The company follows a conservative, liability-driven investment approach.
How does Great Eastern's relationship with OCBC Bank influence its investments?
Great Eastern is 88% owned by OCBC Bank, one of Singapore's three largest banks. This relationship provides access to OCBC's institutional network, deal flow, and investment capabilities. However, Great Eastern's investment portfolio is managed independently with its own investment management team and governance structure.
Can fund managers approach Great Eastern for LP commitments?
Yes, GPs can approach Great Eastern's investment team in Singapore. The company evaluates alternative investment opportunities through its in-house team and has been gradually expanding its alternatives program. Managers with Asia-Pacific expertise, particularly in ASEAN markets, will find strong alignment, though the company also invests globally.
