Graviton acquires a majority stake in Portfolio Analytics

Johannesburg - Graviton has acquired a majority stake in Portfolio Analytics - a market-leading discretionary fund manager (DFM) – bringing Portfolio Analytics into the Graviton stable.

Graviton is an advice network and discretionary fund manager that currently supports independent financial advisers across the country. Graviton provides advisers with the tools, market insights, operational support and balance sheet required to enable and grow their advice businesses. Graviton is a majority black-owned entity within the Sanlam Investment Holdings structure, reflecting its commitment to transformation and inclusive growth in South Africa’s financial services industry.

Portfolio Analytics was one of the first companies to enter the South African DFM market, originating from a management buyout of the Investec Analytics business in 2004. With expanded capabilities and reach, this acquisition further enables Graviton to support independent financial advisers in growing their practices and meeting their evolving client needs.

“We expect to see more consolidation in the DFM industry in South Africa, following a similar trend in the UK,” said James Towell, Managing Director of Portfolio Analytics. “We need to remain flexible and attuned to the needs of our clients as the industry continues to evolve. This partnership is an alignment built on shared values and a shared vision of the future of advice,” he added.

Graviton and Portfolio Analytics will maintain their identities while collaborating to build one of the largest adviser-focused DFMs. Analytics Consulting is not part of the transaction and will rebrand to Advantage.

The financial planning and advice industry continues to experience rapid transformation, driven by regulatory shifts such as COFI (Conduct of Financial Institutions Bill), changing client expectations, technological innovation, and a growing demand for flexible, investment solutions that prioritise client outcomes.

“James Towell and the Portfolio Analytics team have a deep understanding of the advice landscape and DFM market. This transaction brings together two parties with a strong culture fit who believe that the combined entity will strengthen our offering and commitment to the independent financial adviser market,” said Mark Duff, Chief Executive Officer of Graviton.

Sanlam Investments CEO Carl Roothman said, “We are excited to welcome the Portfolio Analytics team to our business. We pride ourselves on remaining nimble and on being able to offer leading solutions and support to our clients. We believe this transaction will enable us to build an integrated wealth and financial planning business that will benefit our advisers and their clients alike,” he concluded.

The Parties anticipate that the transaction will be effective 1 October, but this is subject to all the required approvals having been received.