The Chickasaw Nation announced that its anchor investment in a newly formed private investment firm, Good Springs Capital. This initial investment in the new firm represents the Chickasaw Nation’s next step in its investment strategy, which has already achieved successful gaming, hospitality, and healthcare enterprises over the past decades.
Chickasaw Nation’s Investment Strategy
Good Springs Capital is led by Managing Partners David Van Geyzel and Udi Toledano. They previously ran Alleghany Capital before Berkshire Hathaway acquired that company in October 2022.
“Our historical success in developing industry-leading enterprises has led to the partnership with the accomplished team from Good Springs Capital, led by David and Udi,” said Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby in a statement.
[blockquote align=”left” author=”Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby” style=”font-size: 30px”]For two decades, our Chickasaw Nation Department of Commerce has leveraged sound investment strategies and strong management to revolutionize our tribal economy. This transformation has facilitated significant investments in education, health, housing, and cultural revitalization.[/blockquote]
Dan Boren, the Secretary of Commerce for the Chickasaw Nation, commented, “The timing is ideal for expanding our diversification efforts and capabilities. Their ten-year track record of success, with significant organic growth potential, complements the Chickasaw Nation’s investment approach, said Boren.
Good Springs Capital Named After First Chickasaw Capital
According to its website, the Good Springs Capital takes it name from the natural springs in south central Oklahoma. The Chickasaw Nation rebuilt here in the mid-1800s after being removed from their ancestral homeland in the Southeastern United States. They established the new capital at Good Springs (Kulli Chokma) because of a flow of sweet pure ground water. Now, this site is a symbol of resilience and determination. These are qualities that Good Springs Capital “seeks in the companies in which it invests,” according to its website.
“We are thrilled about the opportunity to partner with the Chickasaw Nation and look forward to building Good Springs Capital by executing our well-defined investment strategy and operating model,” said David Van Geyzel. “Furthermore, we hold the utmost respect for the Chickasaw Nation’s rich history, and we admire Governor Anoatubby’s visionary leadership, which has led to the Nation’s impressive economic and investment accomplishments.”
“Within our target industries, Good Springs Capital seeks to partner with seasoned and enterprising management teams that operate with integrity and lead companies with strong and improving competitive advantages. We then work closely with these companies to accelerate their growth over time,” explained Udi Toledano.
Good Springs Capital is based in New York City. It will focus on majority control investments in middle-market companies in the industrial, services, and consumer sectors.
Learn More About the Chickasaw Nation
With more than 77,000 citizens, the Chickasaw Nation is a democratic republic with executive, legislative and judicial departments. The tribal treaty territory includes 7,648 square miles of south-central Oklahoma and encompasses all or parts of 13 Oklahoma counties. The Chickasaw Nation contributes billions to the Oklahoma economy annually and employs nearly 14,000 workers. Business revenues provide most funding for more than 200 tribal programs. These services include health care, housing and education for Chickasaw citizens and First Americans.