Marcus Catsaras, a Tokyo-based weather trader and climate investor, has emerged as one of Australia’s largest political donors, outspending billionaires like Gina Rinehart and Harry Triguboff in recent years.
According to The Nightly, Catsaras, who has donated nearly $2 million over the past two years, is largely funding the federal re-election campaigns of six independent “teal” MPs this year.
Despite his substantial contributions, details about Catsaras’ wealth and businesses remain murky. He is understood to be involved in StepChange, a company trading electricity futures based on weather predictions, but it operates with little public visibility, lacking a detailed website and media presence.
Catsaras is also the managing partner of Aethra, a small climate fund investing in projects like battery storage and experimental technologies for generating natural gas from sunlight and air.
While Aethra’s size raises questions about its ability to support such large donations, Catsaras’ substantial backing of Climate 200 explains his significant contributions.
Though little is known about his personal background, Catsaras is known for his interest in climate change and has supported political figures who advocate for climate action.
He did not respond to inquiries about his donations but has expressed his belief that investing in climate mitigation will ultimately save money.
Source: The Nightly.
