What ARK Impact Is All About
ARK Impact is a diversified global alternative asset manager with offices in Seoul and Mumbai. Their focus? Partnering with innovative companies that create a unique synergy between long-term financial growth and meaningful social and environmental impact. They’re not just about profits—they’re about making a difference while growing value. In private markets, ARK Impact invests in venture and growth-stage companies worldwide, targeting those riding the strongest growth drivers, boasting highly leveraged business models, and led by management teams laser-focused on innovation. On the public markets side, their goal is to outperform over the long haul by blending impact investment philosophy with classic value investing principles. Plus, ARK Impact is a licensed private investment manager regulated by the Financial Supervisory Service of Korea, ensuring they play by the rules.
The Main Benefit of ARK Impact’s Approach
ARK Impact’s strategy delivers a powerful blend of financial returns and social/environmental value. Here are some key figures and facts that highlight their impact:
- B Corp certification achieved in 2019, reflecting high standards of social and environmental performance.
- B Corp score of 81.4, showcasing commitment to responsible business practices.
- Global presence with offices in Seoul and Mumbai, enabling diverse market access.
- Focus on both private and public markets, balancing growth-stage ventures with value investing.
- Impact performance indicators carefully tracked, including competitiveness ratings, asset growth, and investor relations.
Core Values Driving ARK Impact
At the heart of ARK Impact lies a deep belief in impact investment. They invest with the conviction that the companies they back are not just changing the world—they’re innovating society itself. This isn’t just about capital; it’s about catalyzing positive change. Their values emphasize the integration of financial success with social and environmental progress, creating a win-win for investors and communities alike.
Mission Statement: More Than Just Money
ARK Impact’s mission is crystal clear: maximize the integrated value of financial returns and social/environmental impact through thoughtful impact investment. They aim to contribute to social innovation by supporting innovative businesses—whether listed or unlisted, domestic or international. It’s about pushing boundaries and fostering growth that benefits everyone, not just shareholders.
Tracking Success Through Impact Performance Indicators
To keep their goals on track, ARK Impact measures and manages several impact performance indicators. These include:
- Competitiveness rating of impact investment products, assessing social and financial returns, liquidity, and risk improvement.
- Amount of impact assets, broken down by asset type, proportion of total assets, and growth rate.
- Impact investor relations, tracking the number and growth rate of institutional and individual investors, plus ongoing communication efforts.
ARK Impact’s Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
A Brief Look at ARK Impact’s History
ARK Impact’s journey began in 2003 as Lee & Kim Investment Advisory Co., Ltd. Fast forward to 2005, they supported the Korea Social Venture Competition (SCVK), showing early commitment to social innovation. The company underwent a couple of name changes—becoming Ark Investment Advisory Co., Ltd. in 2011, and then Ark Impact Asset Management Co., Ltd. in 2017. A major milestone came in 2019 with the B Corp certification, underscoring their dedication to responsible business. Most recently, in 2023, Han Seong-geun stepped in as CEO, steering the company into its next chapter.
