Introduction
XSML is an investment fund manager with a focus on frontier markets,
particularly those in Central Africa. While building and managing funds,
XSML, eXtra Small Medium Large, aims to grow small businesses into
medium and large enterprises. We seek to partner with investors who
share our passion for investing with impact and to help SME companies
with growth capital and know-how. Our understanding of private equity
coupled with an appreciation of risks and rewards through our local
presence, puts us in a position to generate attractive risk adjusted
returns for our investors and entrepreneurs alike.
History
XSML was founded in 2008. The managing partners have an extensive
background in emerging markets in the areas of asset management,
corporate and development banking and corporate restructuring. Our
experience have shown that demand for finance from small and medium
sized enterprises (SMEs) remains largely untapped despite increased
interest in emerging markets from international investors. XSML bridges
this gap between the international investors and the SMEs in
emerging markets.
emerging markets.
In November 2010, XSML established its first fund under management,
the Central Africa SME Fund, which invests in the Democratic Republic of
Congo and Central African Republic. The fund focuses on providing
private equity finance and management expertise to SMEs in these two
frontier markets where there is no or limited finance available.
Investment Policy
XSML believes that growing a small business into a medium and large
business in emerging markets generates superior returns for its
investors over time. XSML realises that providing capital alone is
insufficient; SMEs need expertise and guidance to achieve sustainable
growth. XSML is committed to support SMEs in their development – this
support is critical in enabling them to achieve their growth potential.
The giraffe is symbolic of XSML’s philosophy. As the tallest animal
in the world, a giraffe is able to scan the distance to ascertain risks
from afar and to reach for the best leaves on the trees. Like the
giraffe, XSML believes in its ability to find the best opportunities in
risky markets...."
