Brian Gaynor dies

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One of the titans of New Zealand's capital markets, Brian Gaynor, passed away this morning after a brief illness.

Monday, May 16th 2022, 3:29PM 4 Comments

by BusinessDesk

Brian co-founded Milford Asset Management.

Among many accolades, Brian was twice awarded the NZ Shareholders Association Beacon Award in 2020 and 2006. His distinguished career included roles as a partner and head of research at Jarden, a member of the New Zealand Stock Exchange, chairman of the New Zealand Society of Investment Analysts and chairman of the Asian Securities Analysts Council.

Milford has grown into one of New Zealand’s most successful investment houses, with $15 billion currently under management.

The NZX paid tribute to Gaynor, acknowledging his immense contribution to capital markets over nearly five decades.

“As one of the country’s leading investment analysts, Brian was a titan of New Zealand’s capital markets,” NZX chairman James Miller says.

“Brian would be one of most influential people in the 150-year history of New Zealand’s capital markets and the NZX.”

“He had an amazing career from equity analyst to entrepreneurial fund manager, while also being a leading business commentator.

“Brian was a highly visible leader with a first-class intellect who was passionate about capital markets and the role they played in the wider economy.

“We both shared a deep passion for the success of the New Zealand capital markets. His contribution will be sadly missed.”

NZX chief executive Mark Peterson says Gaynor championed New Zealand having a strong and independent exchange.

“Brian highlighted the important role markets play in economic growth by providing capital to businesses, enabling jobs and growth, and a higher standard of living for New Zealanders,” Peterson says.

“One of his great strengths was his willingness to foster debate by openly and courageously sharing his views. He had incredible market knowledge, history and insights.”

Gaynor was instrumental in the revitalisation of BusinessDesk, both as a major shareholder and the chairman of its board before the sale to NZME.

He invested in BusinessDesk because it meant he could help create the journalism he felt New Zealand needed. Prior to that he wrote a column in the NZ Herald for 23 years, before he began writing for BusinessDesk.

"We at BusinessDesk express our deepest condolences to Brian’s family and all who knew him. We are devastated."

Details of a memorial service will be released in due course. 

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