Erik Punger joins SmartCap
Erik Punger has joined the team of Estonia’s state-owned fund manager SmartCap as Head of Compliance and Risk.
“Compliance and risk management is essential second line of defence for SmartCap, ensuring that our fund operations align with regulations, internal policies, and the company’s risk appetite. As SmartCap continues to grow, the complexity and expectations around our operations are also increasing. We’re glad to welcome Erik to the team—he brings long-standing and diverse experience from working in regulated sectors,” said Mari Kuhi, Member of the Management Board and Chief Operating Officer at SmartCap.
Punger brings strong expertise in compliance and risk management. Before joining SmartCap, he led the compliance and risk functions at IPF Digital AS, Estonian e-money and credit service provider with two licenses in Estonia, and cross-boarder activities in Latvia and Lithuania. Earlier in his career, he worked at Estonian Railways, where he represented the company in international EU-level railway organisations and advised on legal matters related to EU law.
“A strong compliance and risk culture and clear processes are integral to trustworthy fund management. It is not the responsibility of a single department but a shared value across SmartCap. The management board of SmartCap clearly recognizes that our sole investor and stakeholders trust a fund manager that prioritizes clear processes and a strong risk and compliance framework. I’m excited to apply my experience in this environment and contribute to SmartCap’s responsible growth,” said Erik Punger.
SmartCap is a subsidiary of the Estonian Business and Innovation Agency, registered with the Estonian Financial Supervision Authority. The company manages several funds, including the SmartCap Venture Capital Fund, the Green Fund and the Defence Fund, with a focus on fostering innovation and driving Estonia’s economic growth.