Peter Lim a savvy investor

Peter Lim Eng Hock, aged 57, popularly known as the former king of remisiers, made his fortune as a successful stockbroker in Singapore in the 1980s.

His fortunes received a big boost in the last decade from his 5% stake in palm oil giant Wilmar International, the world’s largest palm-oil firm that was founded by his former client Kuok Khoon Hong.

The son of a fishmonger and a housewife, he studied in Perth, Australia, where he honed his investing skills. After graduation, he ventured into accountancy and later stockbroking, where he would carve a name for himself.

The self-made billionaire, who was in the stockbroking business for many years, is not afraid of market crashes. “Just make sure you are not jammed with cash flow” is Lim’s advice as he had reportedly some years back.

Lim’s clout in the market is undeniable as a link to his name would create a buzz for any stock. He is now a full-time investor and is reaping the fruits of his investments. He was ranked Singapore’s eighth richest man by Forbes Asia with a net worth of US$1.6 billion in 2010.

He has investments in diversified businesses including substantial stakes in fashion retailer FJ Benjamin, investment firm Rowskey and Healthway Medical, a chain of clinics, as well as a stake in brewery and restaurant Brewerkz.

Lim

Apart from investments in big ventures, Lim also recently made his maiden investment in the film-making industry. Last month, he had reportedly made a substantial injection of capital into a new privately-held film production and distribution company Homerun Asia Pte Ltd, allowing it to accelerate its production slate.

Lim bought shares in Homerun via his private vehicle Kestrel Capital Partners Pte Ltd. However, the value of his stake has not been disclosed. In addition to the equity stake in Homerun, it has been reported that Lim is also expected to provide cash flow and project financing for some of Homerun’s movies.

Lim is also known for his philanthropy. Having made a fortune, Lim reportedly said a large portion of his wealth would go back to society in Singapore, mostly through his pet cause — education.

According to Forbes, Lim recently pledged US$7 million to the Singapore Olympic Foundation to provide scholarships to budding athletes.



Written by Joy Lee
This article appeared in The Edge Financial Daily, August 19, 2010.