ARK Investment Management has launched its first private markets fund for UK and European investors.
The ARK Private Innovation ELTIF provides access to high-growth private companies including SpaceX and Databricks.
The fund targets businesses before initial public offerings (IPOs), where much of the value creation is happening.
Its focuses on disruptive technologies including AI, robotics, energy storage, blockchain and genomics.
The minimum investment via Wealth Club is £10,000.
This is a higher-risk, long-term investment and is suitable only for experienced investors.
Susannah Streeter, Chief Investment Strategist, Wealth Club:

“Experienced UK investors have the chance to get on board SpaceX, one of the world’s most valuable private firms, ahead of its long-awaited stock market launch.

The ARK Private Innovation ELTIF, available on the Wealth Club platform, is designed to provide access to private, high-growth companies that are typically out of reach for most investors. Founded by Cathie Wood, ARK has a long-standing approach of identifying transformative companies early, often before they become widely known.

SpaceX illustrates a key and growing trend – many of the most exciting and potentially valuable companies are staying private longer. By the time they list, a significant portion of growth may have already occurred. This fund aims to give investors access at an earlier stage, but it’s important to stress that investing in private markets carries risks and is not suitable for everyone.

Alongside SpaceX, the fund currently holds Databricks, with plans to diversify further as the portfolio grows. The strategy is focused on innovation themes such as artificial intelligence, robotics, energy storage, blockchain and genomics. These are all areas that could shape the global economy over the coming decade.

It is important to understand that high growth potential comes with higher risk. ARK’s high-conviction, long-term approach can result in periods of volatility. Investors should be prepared for fluctuations in value and accept that private investments are inherently illiquid. The fund provides some flexibility with access to the fund available every month, and the potential for to exit every quarter, once the fund has finished its ramp-up period, expected in early 2027. However, it remains a long-term commitment, and it is designed for experienced investors who can tolerate risk and hold their capital over several years.

If you want to invest in the fund at its end of March value (the NAV, or net asset value), you must submit your application by 24 March. This fund offers a rare opportunity to access early-stage growth companies, but it is essential that investors approach it with caution and a clear understanding of the risks involved. They should also ensure they already have a well-diversified portfolio.”