New types of players seek 'diamonds in the rough' by pursuing SME M&A deals in Asean

Unlike traditional private equity firms, these niche players have an appetite for micro-to-small buyouts and longer-term holds. M3I aims to acquire high-potential SMEs in fragmented industries that need operational support and strategic capital.

About M3I Investment

As highlighted in the article, M3I Investment aims to acquire high-potential SMEs in fragmented industries across Southeast Asia. Founded by Malcolm Wong in November 2024, M3I focuses on providing both operational support and strategic capital to businesses that show strong potential but may have been overlooked due to their size.

The "buy-and-build" strategy employed by M3I involves acquiring a platform company, then making strategic add-on acquisitions to create larger, more valuable businesses. This approach is particularly effective in fragmented industries such as home improvement, where M3I has already begun consolidation efforts.

Unlike traditional private equity firms that typically target larger deals and shorter investment horizons, M3I takes a longer-term approach to value creation, focusing on operational improvements and strategic growth initiatives.

Our Investment Approach

M3I's investment strategy centers on identifying "diamonds in the rough" - SMEs with strong fundamentals but that may struggle with financial management, operational inefficiencies, or digitalization challenges. By providing expertise in these areas, M3I helps transform these businesses into institutional-grade platforms.

For more information about M3I Investment and our approach to SME transformation, please visit our website or contact our team.