New Zealand Regulator Investigates Chance Voight as Six Entities Placed in Liquidation

New Zealand’s Financial Markets Authority (FMA) has launched an investigation into Christchurch-based Chance Voight Investment Corporation and its affiliated entities. The regulatory action coincides with a court order placing six of the firm's companies under interim liquidation.

On December 10, three partners from PwC—Malcolm Hollis, John Fisk, and Lara Bennett—were appointed as interim liquidators. The affected entities include Chance Voight Investment Corporation Limited, Chance Voight Investment Partners Limited, CVI Securities Limited, and three other related subsidiaries.

The investigation focuses on the operations of Bernard Whimp, who previously drew regulatory attention for making unsolicited "low-ball" offers to shareholders of major companies. In 2021, Whimp launched Chance Voight, promoting it as a hedge fund for "eligible" investors and promising to "compound investor capital at 20% annually or better."

While specific details of the probe remain restricted due to court suppression and confidentiality orders, Whimp has vowed to fight the proceedings. Speaking to The Post NZ, he stated, "Absolutely we are challenging the liquidation," characterizing the regulator's move as a "fantastic 'dog' act." He further commented, "Leaders must lead at all times and in all circumstances, for me it's just another D-Day on the Normandy beaches."

Notably, the liquidation orders come shortly after a Chance Voight subsidiary acquired Patterson Wealth Partners Limited, a licensed financial advice provider, in November.