Adelaide has become the focal point for global investment with the commencement of the prestigious Sohn Hearts & Minds conference at the Festival Theatre. This significant event, traditionally hosted in Sydney since 2016, has for the first time convened in South Australia, bringing together over 600 of the world’s leading investors.
These investors, who collectively manage more than $1 trillion in assets, will engage in discussions across critical sectors like space, cyber security, artificial intelligence, and medical research. Their presence underscores a strategic move by the Malinauskas Government to attract high-level economic engagements to the state.
Joe Szakacs, Minister for Trade and Investment, highlighted the significance of the event for the local economy. “South Australia has the best economic growth in the nation,” Szakacs stated, referencing the latest CommSec’s State of the States report. He added, “By bringing this conference to South Australia, we’re shining a bright light on the opportunities right here in our backyard.”
The conference has garnered attention not only for its impressive lineup of keynote speakers but also for its commitment to philanthropy. Notable figures like Mr Howard Marks of Oaktree Capital Management, Mr Nick Moakes from Wellcome Trust, and Ms Rikki Bannan of IFM Investors are among the key presenters. Each brings unique insights from their extensive management of global investment portfolios, valued in the billions.
The Sohn Hearts & Minds conference is not just a platform for investment dialogue but also acts as a benefactor for local medical research initiatives. Part of the proceeds from the conference will be donated to South Australian medical research, continuing the event’s longstanding tradition of supporting health innovations.
Additionally, the conference highlights local industries through a series of displays that showcase South Australian companies in fields such as medical devices, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and green energy solutions. This focus not only illustrates the state’s diverse industrial landscape but also aligns with the targeted themes of the conference, emphasizing sectors like space and artificial intelligence.
Over the years, the Sohn Hearts & Minds conference has raised more than $70 million for Australian medical research, demonstrating a strong fusion of investment activity and philanthropic commitment. This event has seen more than 7,700 attendees and 209 speakers since its inception, solidifying its role as a cornerstone in both the economic and medical research communities.
The decision by the state government to sponsor and host this year’s event aims to leverage the economic momentum of South Australia and showcase its viable market to a global audience.
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