Aquiline Capital Partners, a private investment firm specializing in financial services and related technologies, recently announced raising over $3.4 billion. This substantial capital influx comes from the final closing of its fifth private equity fund, Aquiline Financial Services Fund V L.P. (AFS V), and its continuation fund, Aquiline Financial Services Continuation Fund L.P.
AFS V: A Record-Breaking Fund for Aquiline Capital Partners
AFS V secured over $2.3 billion in commitments, making it the largest fund in Aquiline’s history and significantly surpassing its predecessor. The fund received robust support from existing investors, including financial institutions, sovereign wealth funds, and family offices. Notably, AFS V also attracted substantial first-time investments from across the globe, underscoring confidence in Aquiline’s investment strategy and growth potential.
Continuation Fund Secures $1.1 Billion with HarbourVest Partners as Lead Investor
Alongside AFS V, Aquiline closed its Continuation Fund with approximately $1.1 billion in commitments. HarbourVest Partners led the investment, joined by other new investors like StepStone and Ares Management, along with reinvestment from existing limited partners. The Continuation Fund will acquire select portfolio companies from Aquiline Financial Services Fund II L.P. (AFS II) and Aquiline Financial Services Fund III L.P. (AFS III), offering investors continued value creation and providing existing partners with accelerated liquidity options. A significant portion of the fund will support future growth and acquisitions within the portfolio. This strategic move allows Aquiline to further capitalize on promising investments within its existing portfolio. Existing limited partners in AFS II and AFS III had the flexibility to roll over their current value, reinvest in the Continuation Fund, or opt for full liquidity.
Aquiline Capital Partners’ Leadership Comments on Successful Fundraising
Managing Partners Vincenzo La Ruffa and Igno van Waesberghe welcomed the combined $3.4 billion in capital. Van Waesberghe emphasized Aquiline’s deep industry knowledge and strong relationships as key drivers of the successful fundraising, particularly in a challenging market. He highlighted the diverse mix of new strategic and institutional investors, expressing excitement about the momentum already seen in AFS V and the continued value creation journey.
Aquiline’s Investment Strategy: Focusing on Financial Industry Challenges
Since its inception in 2005, Aquiline Capital Partners has consistently focused on partnering with companies to address significant challenges within the financial industry. Their global presence and rigorous analysis allow them to identify pivotal industry trends, enabling them to partner effectively with companies and generate value for investors. Aquiline’s expertise spans various sectors, including insurance, asset and wealth management, and payments.
La Ruffa emphasized Aquiline’s commitment to providing capital and expertise to exceptional companies, offering a range of investment options from private equity to venture and growth funding, and credit. This comprehensive approach, coupled with their global reach and industry expertise, positions Aquiline as a strong partner for industry leaders and innovators. This targeted investment strategy solidifies their position as a leader in the financial services private equity landscape.
