AXA IM Alts, the alternatives investment arm of AXA Investment Managers, was awarded 'Private equity ESG fund of the year' for its actively managed Global Health Strategy which was singled out by the judges as an "interesting initiative in a theme where more investment is needed".

Launched in April 2022, the strategy targets investments in companies aiming to deliver healthcare solutions at accessible price points for global markets.

AXA IM Alts mentions that the strategy focuses on innovation in medical devices, biopharmaceuticals, vaccines, diagnostics, and early-stage commercial companies.

Alexandre Martin-Min, head of natural capital & impact investments at AXA IM Alts, commented: "Through this strategy we invest in companies that deliver products and services that are profitable at accessible price points by addressing high volume markets, as opposed to only the high-income customers that private capital is traditionally limited to.

"The launch of this strategy further supports our commitment to bring our clients highly diversified, impact-driven solutions at scale that capitalise on market trends."

Investments to date have included:

• In Q3 2022, a $24 million investment into Maternal Newborn Health Innovations (MNHI), which was established to reduce the substantial burden of maternal and newborn mortality worldwide.
• In Q4 2022, a $28.5 million investment into CXL Ophthalmics, a developer of minimally invasive treatment for keratoconus.
• In Q1 2023, a $25 million investment into Axena Health, a women's health medical device company.