AustralianSuper makes €1.5 billion jump into hyperscale data centers
In a move that highlights the growing appeal of the digital infrastructure market, Australia’s leading superannuation fund, AustralianSuper, has announced its €1.5 billion investment to secure a significant minority stake in Vantage Data Centers Europe, Middle East and Africa (Vantage EMEA). This significant investment marks AustralianSuper’s first exposure to the world of hyperscale data centers.
As part of this acquisition, AustralianSuper is partnering with renowned global alternative asset manager DigitalBridge Group (NYSE: DBRG). Together, they will champion Vantage EMEA’s expansive foray into hyperscale data center platforms across the region, a venture that would build on Vantage’s centuries-old reputation, customer relationships and futuristic infrastructure capabilities.
Nik Kemp, who leads infrastructure at AustralianSuper, expressed the fund’s vision: “The Vantage EMEA platform is at a pivotal moment, full of robust developments in the region’s booming markets. » Mr. Kemp envisions a harmonious partnership with Digital Bridge and Vantage EMEA. This alliance aligns with AustralianSuper’s overarching mission to strengthen the financial stability of its 3.2 million members during their golden years. He noted: “This venture fits perfectly with our current investments in digital infrastructure. This is a progressive step towards amplifying our infrastructural power in Europe.”
Jon Mauck, Senior Managing Director of DigitalBridge, marked AustralianSuper’s journey into EMEA’s premier data center platform. Hailing Vantage for its legacy of success, Mauck highlighted the indomitable growth in cloud demand and the critical role of AI infrastructure. “Digital infrastructure has clearly demonstrated its value as an asset class. As we strengthen our commendable balance sheet, we aspire to be the go-to ally for Australian investors looking to embark on high-end digital infrastructure investments,” Mauck said.
Sureel Choksi, President and CEO of Vantage Data Centers, provided insight into the company’s future trajectory. “The growing demand for data centers in EMEA prompts Vantage to strengthen its commitment to creating environmentally friendly large-scale data center landscapes in the region. Choksi plans a fruitful collaboration with AustralianGreatdesigned to support clients in their quest for constant growth.
Zero carbon emissions by 2030
Vantage EMEA’s foray into the European market in February 2020 was nothing short of dazzling. With a now expanded presence in six countries, the company has established a strong foothold in major financial and commercial nerve centers, from Frankfurt and Berlin in Germany to Zurich in Switzerland and beyond. Their recent debut on the London market, benefiting from an impressive IT capacity of 75 MW spread across two campuses, further amplifies their reach. And it’s not just about expansion; the company is deeply rooted in its commitment to environmental sustainability, aiming for a goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2030.
This crucial transaction between AustralianSuper and Vantage EMEA is expected to close in the last quarter of 2023, subject to standard closing conditions.
Focus: the main players
AustralianSuper – As Australia’s leading superannuation fund, AustralianGreat is at the helm of managing a colossal €180 billion in retirement savings. Representing over 3.2 million members and partnering 448,000 businesses, its infrastructure portfolio, worth over €24 billion, is packed with blue-chip global assets.
Vantage Data Centers – Vantage would present itself as the technology gatekeeper for world-renowned hyperscalers, cloud providers and large enterprises. With its operations spread across North America, EMEA and Asia Pacific, it is a torchbearer of innovative data center design.
Digital Bridge – Based in Florida, Digital Bridge (NYSE: DBRG) has solidly consolidated its reputation in 25 years as a global alternative asset manager specializing in digital infrastructure. With a portfolio worth over $70 billion, it has made significant inroads into cell towers, data centers and advanced infrastructure.
