Brookfield's New York Move: A Strategic Shift for Index Inclusion

Brookfield Asset Management (BAM) has announced a strategic shift in its corporate structure, with a key move being the relocation of its head office from Toronto to New York. This decision, aimed at qualifying for more U.S. stock indexes and attracting more investors, is expected to have significant implications for the company's market capitalization, shareholder ownership, and operational efficiency.

The relocation of BAM's head office to New York is part of a broader effort to enhance the company's corporate structure and position it for broader equity index inclusion. This move will allow BAM to reflect 100% of the asset management business in its market capitalization, which is currently approximately $23 billion, reflecting only 27% of the asset management business. Post-restructuring, BAM's market capitalization is expected to increase to around $85 billion, based on the current stock price of BAM Class A Shares.


Broader index inclusion is expected to drive increased ownership of BAM's Class A Shares by passive institutional investors, who collectively manage trillions of dollars in capital. This increased ownership is likely to drive up the Class A Shares' price, benefiting shareholders. Furthermore, inclusion in widely followed indices is expected to enhance BAM's visibility among a broader universe of active public investors, potentially leading to increased investment and further share price appreciation.


However, the success of this strategy depends on BAM's ability to maintain its operational efficiency and strategic focus while navigating the regulatory and operational complexities of the relocation and restructuring. The company must obtain approval from the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) for exemptive relief from the requirements of Multilateral Instrument 61-101, as well as secure approval from at least two-thirds of votes cast by holders of Class A Shares, Class B Limited Voting Shares, and a simple majority of the votes cast by holders of Class A Shares at a special meeting scheduled for December 20, 2024. Additionally, BAM must obtain NYSE and TSX listing approvals for the Arrangement to close in early 2025.

In conclusion, Brookfield Asset Management's relocation of its head office to New York and the subsequent corporate restructuring present a strategic shift for the company, with potential long-term benefits for shareholders and stakeholders. By qualifying for more U.S. stock indexes and increasing its market capitalization, BAM is positioning itself for broader equity index inclusion and enhanced visibility among investors. However, the success of this strategy depends on BAM's ability to navigate the regulatory and operational challenges associated with the relocation and restructuring.