"Well-integrated and diverse digital infrastructure strategy that is not just seen as a standalone thematic but is also intertwined with the energy transition," judge’s comment

WINNER

At 31 December 2023

Country

Netherlands

Date established

2008

Overall AUM

€569,000m

Real assets/infra AUM

€27,000m

Real assets/infra annual performance

6.10%

APG adopts a proactive approach to digital infrastructure investments, focusing on building robust, sustainable platforms that align with its long-term objectives, while enhancing its overall portfolio diversification. It invests in a balanced mix of fibre networks, data centres and telecommunications infrastructure across key regions such as the US and Europe. It commits to this diversified approach to not only mitigate risk but also maximise opportunities for growth and innovation within the digital ecosystem.

Central to APG’s investment philosophy is the integration of digital infrastructure to complement and enhance its broader asset class portfolios and align with its commitment to sustainable development goals, ensuring that each venture contributes positively to ESG standards. It seeks partnerships with management teams and stakeholders to shape strategic pivotal roadmaps that foster sustainable growth and operational excellence.

A key example is Glaspoort, a company it created in a joint venture with KPN, the leading Dutch telecommunications company, where APG actively engages with management teams to drive ESG performance. Glaspoort has thus successfully implemented APG’s ESG policies and procedures, including dedicated staff, diversity and inclusion policies, and reporting on energy and greenhouse gas emissions. The company’s operations significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the Dutch telecommunications sector by replacing legacy infrastructure with energy-efficient fibre optic networks. Over 500,000 homes in the Netherlands already benefit from Glaspoort.

In addition, as part of its partnership with Orange Poland, it has established Światłowód Inwestycje, which aims to connect some 2.4 million underserved households in Poland to fast and reliable internet. The Światłowód Inwestycje innovation has already been rolled out to over 1.9 million homes.

Elsewhere, in partnership with Fiera Infrastructure, APG acquired Conterra Networks, a major independent provider of fibre-based services in the US. It has increased its commitment to the smart cities sector, allocating significant investments to solutions such as smart lighting, parking, waste collection and pollution control.

STRATEGIC TAKEAWAYS

➤ Diversified digital infrastructure portfolio based on integrated ESG standards

➤ Creation of energy-efficient fibre optic network firm in the Netherlands

➤ Launch of internet company in Poland and commitment to smart cities concept

Judged by

Anish Butani
Sergio Carfizzi
Georg Inderst
Paul Owens

 

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