GAIA’s beginnings can be traced back to the founding of the Asset Class Investors Association (ACIG) in 2004. Seven firms from Australia and New Zealand ran six monthly study group meetings – with each firm taking it in turns to host in their city. By 2007, the number of firms had grown to eight, and ACIG members took part in a five day study tour of the USA. In 2014, GAIA was officially formed, with five firms from outside Australasia joining the ACIG members. In the years since, more firms have been accepted into GAIA, giving us a current total of 19 members around the world – including one provisional member. Member firms communicate regularly, share information and insights, and collaborate on key issues such as cybersecurity. GAIA has traditionally held a much-anticipated annual conference, which includes celebrated guest speakers and upskilling opportunities for attendees. With Covid-19 impacting global travel in recent times, GAIA has hosted several virtual conferences, and our members continue to work collaboratively towards our shared vision of providing the best financial and investment advice to our clients.