UK-based asset manager M&G Investments has invested in FiberSense, an Australian company using artificial intelligence ( AI )-powered sensing technology to safeguard critical infrastructure.

The investment, on behalf of M&G’s Catalyst strategy, will accelerate, the companies say, FiberSense’s innovation in signal processing and AI, grow in the marine and utility sectors and expand its reach globally.

The Catalyst strategy invests in innovative businesses tackling global environmental and societal challenges and, in this case, demonstrating how institutional capital can enhance infrastructure resilience worldwide.

The Australian company uses smart software, AI and advanced signal technology to spot problems like water leaks, cable damage or anchor movement – before they escalate into larger, costlier issues.

The company helps owners and operators of infrastructure – including utilities, telecommunications providers and subsea cable networks – to shift from fixing maintenance problems after they happen to predictive infrastructure management.

This smarter approach cuts costs, reduces service disruptions and helps extend the life of critical assets, all while supporting greener, more sustainable cities.  

“As climate risks intensify and digital infrastructure becomes more critical, the need to future-proof essential systems has never been more urgent,” says Praveg Patil, M&G’s head of Asia-Pacific for impact and private equity. “FiberSense has turned existing fibre optic cables into a nervous system that can sense threats and prevent failures before they become disasters—it supports reducing downtime and minimising environmental impact.

“This is exactly the kind of practical innovation Catalyst is investing in – technology that keeps the lights on, water flowing and communications connected.”