Rumours of Danantara Investment in A24 Studio: Pandu Sjahrir Highlights Creative Sector Potential

Danantara Indonesia has addressed rumours regarding an investment in the American independent film studio, A24. The speculation about Danantara Indonesia’s investment in this US-based studio has sparked public concerns over the direction of the sovereign wealth fund (SWF) investments in non-traditional sectors. Chief Investment Officer (CIO) of Danantara Indonesia, Pandu Sjahrir, clarified that no investment in A24 has been realised to date. According to him, the issue circulated because he knows several figures at the A24 production house. “There has been no Danantara investment in A24. It just so happens that I do know them (executives at A24),” Pandu told Bisnis on Thursday (26/3/2026). Nevertheless, Pandu acknowledged that the creative sector, including the film industry, is one area being considered due to its potential in supporting the development of Indonesian human resources. “But the creative sector is indeed attractive; we see it as also supporting the development of human resources in the homeland,” he said. Pandu also assured that every Danantara investment decision will continue to prioritise principles of prudence, including ensuring optimal returns and strategic value for the national economy. Previously, regarding the rumours of Danantara’s investment in the indie production house behind The Whale and Everything Everywhere All At Once, Danantara Indonesia’s Communications Team explained that the entity is committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency and governance. “Therefore, every investment opportunity we pursue must undergo a thorough due diligence process to align with Indonesia’s long-term interests,” stated the Danantara Indonesia Communications Team. On the other hand, the current rumours of Danantara’s investment are noteworthy because A24 is the production house that has given birth to major works. Getting to Know A24 A24 is known as a commercially and artistically successful independent film studio, with several Academy Award-winning films and a continuously rising valuation in the global industry. A24, initially just a small independent film distribution company, quickly transformed into one of the most respected and successful names in the global filmmaking industry. New York City was the starting point for this joint venture, launched as a film distribution company in 2013. Daniel Katz, David Fenkel, and John Hodges each brought their cinematic expertise to this rising production house. Its unique storytelling style and artistic freedom have contributed to A24’s reputation among people inside and outside Hollywood. As reflected in its simple opening logo, A24 has a straightforward approach to the film industry before ultimately becoming a billion-dollar company behind cult classics, box office successes, and even Academy Award-winning films. In 2013, A24 released its first film, A Glimpse Inside the Mind of Charles Swan III. In the same year, they also released Spring Breakers, a film starring Selena Gomez, Vanessa Hudgens, and James Franco about college students on an out-of-control spring break holiday. This film achieved moderate box office success, paving the way for more creative projects. A24 also continues to distribute low-budget independent films by up-and-coming filmmakers. A24 has enabled directors like Barry Jenkins, Robert Eggers, and Greta Gerwig to have full artistic freedom, using their unique creative voices to make films exactly as they envisioned.