Reaching 100 is a defining milestone that resonates universally, whether in sport, life or investment. It’s a mark of dedication, excellence and lasting impact, making it the perfect representation of success. Whether it’s achieving 100 international rugby test caps, living 100 years, or delivering 100-fold returns in investments, these milestones embody an unwavering commitment to performance – the perfect synergy for an exciting new partnership.
“Getting from one to 100 takes a lot – long-term focus, passion, consistency, tenacity and a smart approach,” Peregrine Capital CEO and portfolio manager Jacques Conradie announced at the company’s recent launch in Sandton of its partnership with the Rugby Centurions Foundation, a non-profit organisation that honours elite players who have reached 100 international test caps or more for their country.
As the only hedge fund manager in South Africa to have ever returned 100 times its initial investment to investors via its flagship High Growth and Pure Hedge funds, Peregrine Capital knows what it takes to achieve 100 times*.
Since its inception on February 1 2000, Peregrine Capital’s flagship High Growth Fund, which invests in the fund manager’s best investment ideas across the equity market and other asset classes while assuming moderate levels of risk, has delivered a remarkable 18,815% return (SA MA High Equity: 1,193%; FTSE/JSE Capped SWIX: 1,898%, as of June 30, 2025). That means R1m invested at the fund’s inception would be worth more than R180m today*.
In 2020, following two decades of market-beating performances, including a 31.9% return in 2002, the High Growth Fund became the first fund in South African history to achieve a 100 times (10,000%) net return for investors*.
“Our investment philosophy offers downside protection, with less reliance on market performance than standard unit trust funds, along with uncorrelated returns that provide diversification benefits in investment portfolios,” explains Conradie.
The Peregrine Pure Hedge Fund has since joined this incredibly exclusive club, becoming the second fund in South Africa to pass the 100 times barrier, delivering a 103 times return since inception. Impressively, the Pure Hedge Fund has never had a negative year since its launch in July 1998*.
The magic number
In sport, the number 100 is woven into the fabric of achievement, with 100 international rugby test caps the quintessential measure of skill, consistency and longevity. Few athletes reach this milestone as it demands a decade or more of playing at the highest level while withstanding injury, form slumps and selection pressure.
“Whether in sport or finance, a century signals something extraordinary, which is why we are incredibly proud and excited to announce a new partnership between Peregrine Capital and The Rugby Centurions Foundation,” continues Conradie.
The partnership will not only celebrate players’ achievements but also contribute to a legacy by raising funds for the causes that the Rugby Centurions support, such as the Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players’ Fund, which ensures support for seriously injured rugby players.
“Much like the Centurions, who represent the pinnacle of athletic achievement with 100-plus international test caps, Peregrine Capital’s flagship funds have surpassed the 100 times milestone in investment returns, creating a powerful bond between these two extraordinary journeys,” adds Conradie. “This partnership reflects our shared belief in investing in performance and playing the long game.”
Said former Springbok captain and Centurion John Smit: “The number 100 represents a clear threshold and very few do achieve it. It implies resilience, focus, professionalism, consistency, passion, discipline and determination. These qualities are the bedrock that forms the foundation for a rugby player’s journey to reach 100 international test caps. We saw these shared values reflected in Peregrine Capital too, which is why this partnership made sense to us.”
Conradie says the commonality of these qualities was exactly why Peregrine Capital jumped at the opportunity. “Reaching 100 is a milestone that defines careers, creates legends and commands respect. It’s not just a sign of success, it represents significance,” concludes Conradie.
Through this partnership, Peregrine Capital will bring the Centurions’ legacy into the spotlight with exclusive events, marketing campaigns and content that highlight the core values of endurance, performance and determination. These very qualities define both legendary athletes and superior investors on the journey of what it takes to go from one to 100.
* Peregrine Capital is an authorised financial services provider. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Terms and conditions apply. View our latest disclaimers on www.peregrine.co.za.
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