On January 16, U.S. private equity firm General Atlantic announced its agreement to acquire UK-based infrastructure investor Actis, signaling growing investor confidence in alternative assets. While the financial terms of the deal were not disclosed in the joint statement released by both companies, it is anticipated to increase General Atlantic's assets under management to approximately $96 billion.

This acquisition follows closely on the heels of BlackRock's recent agreement to acquire Global Infrastructure Partners for $12.5 billion, positioning the asset management giant prominently in global investments related to ports, power, and digital infrastructure projects. Under the terms of General Atlantic's deal, Actis is set to become the firm's sustainable infrastructure arm, contributing around $12.5 billion in assets with a focus on energy transition, digital transformation, and supply chain evolution.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, General Atlantic Chairman and CEO Bill Ford emphasized the "multi-decade opportunity" he sees in energy transition, underscoring the global need for increased renewable energy. Ford highlighted Actis's role in energy production in the 'Global South,' where renewable energy is essential for supporting growth.

Actis will retain its leadership under Chairman and Senior Partner Torbjorn Caeser, and its funds will continue to operate under the existing Actis brand, as outlined in the joint statement. Established in 1980, General Atlantic presently manages a portfolio of 225 companies, including notable entities such as fast-fashion retailer Shein, India's digital payments startup PhonePe, and self-driving technology firm Mobileye, according to information available on its website.

Source: Estate Intel