Kyoto Planet Asset Management Launches Clean Energy Fund

TORONTO, Ontario, Oct. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Kyoto Planet Asset Management today launched the Kyoto Planet Fund, targeting the burgeoning renewable energy and clean technology industries globally. The Kyoto Planet Fund, an open investment fund created exclusively for accredited individuals and institutions, has a unique portfolio approach that includes both public and private companies, giving the Fund flexibility to uncover additional value in these relatively new industries.

"The clean technology and renewable energy industries offer investors a unique opportunity, both from a financial return perspective and as a way to help combat climate change," said Craig Basinger, CEO of Kyoto Planet Asset Management, the investment advisor to the Fund. "We believe that we are in the early stages of a long-term trend towards increased renewable energy use."

One key aspect of the Kyoto Planet Fund is the blend of both public and private market investments. Kyoto Planet Asset Management believes that the renewable energy and clean technology industries are still in their infancy from a developmental perspective and, as a result, many of the great opportunities are still privately held. With up to approximately 25% of Kyoto Planet Fund targeted for private equity at any one time, this investment approach combines the liquidity of the public market with the opportunity of the private market.

"The Kyoto Planet Fund is unlike other eco-focused funds because it's created and managed by the financial arm of a broader eco-focused company, rather than a large financial company simply offering an eco fund," said Basinger. "Our parent company, Kyoto Planet Group, has a number of different businesses all focused on combating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability, which helps Kyoto Planet Asset Management uncover unique investing opportunities by leveraging expertise from other Kyoto Planet Group business units."

Investing with a Conscience

As part of its mission, the parent company Kyoto Planet Group has committed to give one-third of its net profits to its affiliate the Kyoto Planet Foundation. The Kyoto Planet Foundation, which is in the process of developing its charter, will distribute funds to environmental groups or projects that strive to solve climate change issues and promote issues of eco-friendly sustainable living.

About Kyoto Planet Asset Management Inc.

Formed in June 2007, Kyoto Planet Asset Management is a subsidiary of Kyoto Planet Group Inc. Kyoto Planet Asset Management provides investors with professionally managed investments in global renewable energy and clean technology industries. Headquartered in Toronto, Kyoto Planet Asset Management launched its Kyoto Planet Fund in October 2007. For more information about Kyoto Planet Asset Management, please visit http://www.kyotoplanetam.com.

About Kyoto Planet Group

Kyoto Planet Group is a socially responsible eco-conscious company housing three distinct but interrelated entities: Kyoto Planet Financial Services (including Kyoto Planet Capital Partners & Kyoto Planet Asset Management), a vehicle to support and facilitate active investments in the green sector; Kyoto Planet Enterprises, a division focused on practical information, products and services for environmentally conscious consumers and businesses; and the Kyoto Planet Foundation, established to award grants and manage the non-profit activities of the company. For more information please visit http://www.kyotoplanet.com.