STIC links investment opportunities in Asia and drives IT growth

Sharing the 15-year growth trajectory of South Korea's economy, STIC Investments treads the path of success by leveraging the rise of Korean electronics and semiconductor companies. From a venture capital group centred on information technology (IT) in 1999, STIC has matured into a full-fledged private equity firm that specialises in buyouts, growth capital and secondary direct investments.

"STIC shifted its investment strategy to mid-market growth capital investments to be consistent with South Korea's economic growth history," says Kwak Dong-guel, chief investment officer and executive managing partner. "We strengthen the country through our investment expertise, performance and transparency."

Adept at upholding highly progressive companies, STIC started investing in mobile-phone components in the late 1990s. It steadily diversified into broader technology-based investment sectors such as ship building, automotive, health care and green energy. STIC also accelerates the development of technology by backing advanced IT companies. The move encourages the convergence of technologies, devices and processes across various industries.

"The time will come when the establishment of effective IT systems in all environments will be the norm," Kwak says. "When that happens, STIC will stay ahead by leveraging its IT investment expertise."

STIC has invested more than US$200 million in high-potential companies based on the mainland and Taiwan since 2007. Some of its notable investments are with Triplex International Biosciences, a leading producer of rapid diagnostic kits in China, and Golfzon, an indoor golf simulation and systems company. 

STIC also bridges investment opportunities between South Korea and Southeast Asian countries as it nurtures relationships with well-established conglomerates in Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia.