NextBold Capital Could Be Eyeing Up Cambodia For Investment
Private equity firm NextBold Capital, which focuses on supporting the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Southeast Asia, has been reported to be raising its first USD $100 million fund to invest across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos.
In a press release, the Ho Chi Minh City-based equity firm (which was recognised as a key Emerging Manager for Asia Pacific at SuperReturn Asia 2024) said the three SEA markets are the three fast-growing markets ripe for development.
NextBold Capital's strategy encompasses targeting SMEs in the urban centres of the three target markets and focuses on sectors including education, healthcare, consumer goods, and services.
They identify opportunities for governance transformation and value creation in SMEs and three identified markets are on their radar as they are experiencing rapid growth due to:
- Rising middle class
- Strong entrepreneurial cultures
- Increased foreign investment
Pedro Baliza, Managing Partner of NextBold Capital said, "We're incredibly excited about the deals we've already lined up. Our early investments are targeting companies with strong business fundamentals in fast-growing markets, where we see clear potential for sector dominance with the right operational support. We're seeing great momentum from family offices and other co-investors, and are ready to capitalize on the immense growth opportunities ahead."
The fund has started mapping the market sectors with pre-funding deals in motion.
What Is NextBold Capital?
NextBold Capital was co-founded by Sjoerd Zwinkels, former Investment Director at Mekong Capital, as well as Pedro Baliza and Jonas Wilbert - both former Quadrant-backed Fitness & Lifestyle Group executives.
The private equity firm aims to provide hands-on operational expertise to help businesses in these markets scale sustainably in addition to capital.
Pedro Baliza, Managing Partner of NextBold Capital said “We're not just investors; we're partners on the ground. We get involved at an execution level, helping companies address their toughest challenges and unlock their full potential.”
They assist companies to implement governance, drive revenue growth, and improve operational efficiency. Managing Partner Sjoerd Zwinkels, added, “These markets are still underserved by global investors, particularly in the SME space. We see enormous potential for value creation by bringing in the right mix of capital and operational support.”