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Fortitude Re Announces $3.8 Billion Long-Term Care Reinsurance Agreement with Unum Group

Carlyle

HAMILTON, Bermuda – July 6, 2026 — Fortitude Re announced today the signing of a $3.8 billion reinsurance transaction between its subsidiary, Fortitude Reinsurance Company Ltd. (“FRL”) and Unum Life Insurance Company of America (“Unum”), a subsidiary of Unum Group (NYSE: UNM).

Upon receipt of regulatory approvals and subject to satisfaction or waiver of certain other customary closing conditions, Unum will recapture from Fairwind Insurance Company (“Fairwind”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Unum, an individual long-term care (“LTC”) block representing approximately $3.8 billion of statutory reserves in Fairwind (or approximately $4.5 billion on a best estimate reserve basis) and cede the block to FRL, further building on the successful transaction between Fortitude Re and Unum announced last year.

Unum will continue to service and administer the reinsured policies. Simultaneously with the closing of the reinsurance transaction with Unum, FRL will enter into an agreement to retrocede 100% of the LTC insurance risks to a highly rated global reinsurance partner. FRL will thereby retain only the underlying spread-based risks associated with this block of business.

“We are pleased to again partner with Unum and value the trust they have placed in our team,” said Kai Talarek, Chief Growth & Optimization Officer, Fortitude Re. “We also appreciate the support of our strategic partner Carlyle, whose investment expertise helps ensure we optimize the risk-adjusted return of the investments that back the promises we are making to our clients and their policyholders.”

“This reinsurance agreement demonstrates how our client-centric approach drives highly customized solutions tailored to meet client needs,” said Russell Gao, Head of U.S. Origination & Strategy, Fortitude Re. “We thank Unum for its trust, collaboration and continued partnership.”

As a long-term partner and investor in Fortitude, Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) has supported Fortitude on this transaction. Carlyle benefits from Fortitude’s continued growth, with this transaction expected to be added to Carlyle’s fee-earning assets under management.

Sidley Austin LLP served as legal counsel to Fortitude Re.

About Fortitude Re

Fortitude Re refers to FGH Parent, L.P. and its subsidiaries. Fortitude Re is a leading global reinsurer with more than $100 billion in reserves. Backed by world-class investors, including Carlyle and T&D Insurance Group, Fortitude Re combines deep expertise, disciplined execution, and a strong capital base to help clients navigate significant risk and capital challenges. Powered by a people-first culture that attracts, develops, and retains top industry talent, the company delivers innovative, tailored solutions that create lasting value for clients, partners, and policyholders. For more information, visit fortitude-re.com and follow Fortitude Re on LinkedIn.
Media Contacts:

Fortitude Re

Mary Beth Conklin
+1 423-596-1449
Marybeth.Conklin@fortitude-re.com

Carlyle

Andrew Kenny
+44 7385 662334
andrew.kenny@carlyle.com

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Blackstone Energy Transition Partners Announces Agreement to Acquire Dresser Utility Solutions from First Reserve

Blackstone

New York, NY and HOUSTON, TX – July 6, 2026 – Blackstone (NYSE: BX) today announced that funds managed by Blackstone Energy Transition Partners (“Blackstone”) have entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Dresser Utility Solutions (“Dresser”), a premier provider of mission-critical natural gas and water measurement, control and infrastructure equipment solutions, from First Reserve. This represents the first investment of the most recent vintage of Blackstone’s private equity energy transition vehicle.

Founded in 1880 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, Dresser provides metering technology, digital instrumentation and software, pressure and flow control solutions, and infrastructure repair products for gas and water utilities and industrial customers. With approximately 850 employees across its global manufacturing footprint, the company helps customers modernize aging utility infrastructure and improve asset reliability.

David Foley, Global Head of Blackstone Energy Transition Partners, and JP Munfa, Senior Managing Director, said: “As demands on the energy grid continue to grow, Dresser plays a critical role as a trusted partner to utilities managing essential infrastructure. The company’s products are foundational to the safe and reliable operation of gas and water networks, and its reputation for quality has helped build longstanding customer relationships. We look forward to leveraging Blackstone’s scale and resources to help Dresser continue to serve its customers, innovate and grow.”

David Evans, CEO of Dresser Utility Solutions, said: “This transaction marks an exciting milestone for Dresser and reflects the exceptional work of our entire team. Blackstone’s deep resources and experience in the utility sector make them an ideal partner as we continue to invest in innovation, expand our product portfolio, and deliver value for our customers. We are energized by what lies ahead and are grateful to First Reserve for their invaluable partnership in helping build Dresser into the company it is today.”

Jeff Quake, Managing Partner at First Reserve, said: “We’re grateful to have partnered with the Dresser team to build a leading infrastructure technology platform helping utilities optimize assets and manage the digital transformation process. Dresser is well-positioned to continue the execution of its growth strategy and we wish David Evans and the entire team well as they look to build on the company’s momentum in this exciting new chapter.”

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions. D.A. Davidson & Co. and Jefferies acted as financial advisors and Kirkland & Ellis acted as legal advisor to Blackstone. Harris Williams served as financial advisor and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett served as a legal advisor to Dresser.

About Dresser Utility Solutions
With more than a century of innovation, Dresser Utility Solutions is a trusted leader in providing safe, reliable infrastructure technologies that support utilities around the world. The company continues to strengthen and modernize utility infrastructure, ensuring customers receive high-performing technologies that operate safely, reduce emissions and product loss, and minimize operational costs. Dresser’s portfolio includes gas metering technology, digital instrumentation and software, pressure and flow control solutions, and gas and water infrastructure repair products. Together, these solutions support the complete utility infrastructure lifecycle – from measurement and control to repair and maintenance. For more information, visit www.dresserutility.com.

Blackstone Energy Transition Partners   
Blackstone Energy Transition Partners is Blackstone’s strategy for control-oriented equity investments in energy-related businesses, with a successful long-term record, having invested over $28 billion of equity globally across a broad range of sectors across the energy transition landscape. Our investment philosophy is based on backing exceptional management teams with flexible capital to provide solutions that help energy companies grow and improve performance, thereby delivering more reliable, affordable and cleaner energy to meet the needs of the global community. In the process, we build stronger, larger scale enterprises, create jobs and generate lasting value for our investors, employees and all stakeholders. Further information is available at https://www.blackstone.com/our-businesses/blackstone-energy-transition-partners/.

About Blackstone
Blackstone is the world’s largest alternative asset manager. Blackstone seeks to deliver compelling returns for institutional and individual investors by strengthening the companies in which the firm invests. Blackstone’s over $1.3 trillion in assets under management include global investment strategies focused on real estate, private equity, credit, infrastructure, life sciences, growth equity, secondaries and hedge funds. Further information is available at www.blackstone.com. Follow @blackstone on LinkedIn, X (Twitter), and Instagram.

About First Reserve
First Reserve is a leading private equity firm investing across Infrastructure Solutions, Value-Added Infrastructure and Resources strategies with exposure in energy, utility, and industrial markets. Founded in 1983, First Reserve has more than 40 years of industry insight and has cultivated a differentiated network of relationships and portfolio exposure. Since inception, First Reserve has raised over $35 billion of aggregate capital and has developed operational expertise built from over 750 transactions, including platform investments and add-on acquisitions. Please visit www.firstreserve.com for further information.

Media Contacts

Blackstone
Jennifer Heath
Jennifer.Heath@Blackstone.com

First Reserve
Erik Carlson / Madeline Jones
Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher
212.355.4449
FirstReserve-JF@joelefrank.com

Categories: News

A.P. Moller Holding announces the acquisition of Ocean Yield from KKR

KKR

openhagen / London / Oslo, 2 July, 2026: A.P. Møller Holding A/S (A.P. Moller Holding) and KKR, a leading global investment firm, today announced that they have signed an agreement under which a subsidiary of A.P. Moller Holding will acquire 100% of Ocean Yield AS (Ocean Yield), a leading global ship leasing platform, from funds managed by KKR.

Headquartered in Oslo, Norway, Ocean Yield holds interests in over 70 modern vessels, across several core shipping sectors, including gas carriers, container ships, LNG carriers, crude, product and chemical tankers, and dry bulk carriers. Under KKR’s ownership, Ocean Yield has invested more than $3 billion to further expand the existing portfolio, diversify and broaden its investment-grade customer base, and has nearly doubled its long-term contracted backlog to more than $5 billion.

The acquisition of Ocean Yield strengthens A.P. Moller Group’s maritime portfolio, and builds on the Group’s long-term maritime legacy across many segments.

Martin Larsen, CFO of A.P. Moller Holding, said: “We are impressed by Ocean Yield’s performance and its management team. We believe that combining Ocean Yield’s compelling platform with our century-long experience in the maritime industry will create a strong partnership. In addition, we see Ocean Yield’s business model, with its stable cash flow, as an excellent complement to our existing maritime portfolio.”

Andreas Røde, CEO of Ocean Yield, commented: “Since 2021, we have strengthened Ocean Yield as a globally diversified maritime leasing platform with long-duration, high-quality contracted cash flows and a modern fleet positioned for the energy transition. Under private ownership, we have been able to think and act long term as we have partnered with leading shipping companies and end users providing critical infrastructure assets to the maritime industry. We are therefore excited to start our next chapter of growth with A.P. Moller Holding.”

Vincent Policard, Partner and Co-Head of European Infrastructure at KKR, said: “We are proud of the transformation Ocean Yield has delivered during our strategic partnership. Together with the management team, we have significantly scaled and diversified the platform, strengthened its long-term contracted revenue base, and supported its transition toward a more modern and sustainable fleet. Today, Ocean Yield is a larger, stronger and more resilient business, well positioned to continue supporting its customers and the wider maritime sector. We are proud of what has been achieved and believe A.P. Moller Holding is an excellent long-term owner for the company’s next chapter.”

KKR will continue to be a strategic partner to Ocean Yield through their joint investment in CapeOmega Gas Transportation AS.

Completion of the transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals.

For any further information please contact:

Ocean Yield: Andreas Røde, andreas.rode@oceanyield.no, +47 9822 8562

A.P. Moller Holding: Mika Bildsøe Lassen, Mika.Lassen@apmoller.com, +45 2055 2655

KKR: media@kkr.com
About Ocean Yield
Ocean Yield AS is a ship owning company with investments in vessels on long-term charters. The company has a significant contract backlog that offers visibility with respect to future earnings.

About A.P. Moller Holding
A.P. Moller Holding is the parent company of the A.P. Moller Group, headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark. The A.P. Moller Group operates in more than 130 countries with over 130,000 employees. In 2025, the Group generated a revenue of USD 61 billion with consolidated asset value of USD 121 billion. For further information: www.apmoller.com

About KKR
KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com. For additional information about Global Atlantic Financial Group, please visit Global Atlantic Financial Group’s website at www.globalatlantic.com

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CVC DIF agrees sale of Klara Renewables to Actis

CVC|DIF
  • Klara Renewables is a portfolio of six operational onshore wind farms in Poland with a combined installed capacity of 171 MW, generating approximately 500 GWh of clean energy each year
  • CVC DIF acquired all six projects at ready-to-build stage in 2020 and 2021 and managed them successfully through procurement, financing and construction into operation
  • The portfolio benefits from 15-year contracts for difference with the Polish government, and has delivered approximately 99% technical availability
  • This exit underscores CVC DIF’s clear focus on returning capital to investors, supported by the expertise of its dedicated Divestments team

CVC DIF, the infrastructure strategy of leading global private markets manager CVC, is pleased to announce that DIF Infrastructure VI (“DIF VI”) has signed an agreement to divest Klara Renewables, a portfolio of six operational onshore wind farms in Poland, to Actis, a leading global investor in sustainable infrastructure.

Klara Renewables comprises six operational onshore wind farms, with a combined installed capacity of 171 MW generating approximately 500 GWh of clean energy each year. Revenues are supported by 15-year contracts for difference with the Polish government, securing fixed prices for a significant portion of expected annual generation.

CVC DIF, through its DIF VI fund, acquired all six projects at ready-to-build stage in 2020 and 2021 and successfully managed them through procurement, financing and construction into full operation. Under CVC DIF’s ownership, the portfolio has delivered approximately 99% average technical availability, underpinned by commercially proven Vestas turbine technology, long-term operational support arrangements and a dedicated local management team. The divestment represents a successful full-cycle outcome for DIF VI, materialising value created through CVC DIF’s active asset management while supporting the continued build-out of renewable generation in Poland.

Andrew Freeman, Partner and Head of Divestments at CVC DIF, commented: “We are delighted to announce the divestment of Klara Renewables, a high-quality portfolio that we have taken from ready-to-build to full operation. This transaction is a strong example of the value our hands-on asset management approach can create, delivering attractive returns for our investors while advancing the energy transition in Central and Eastern Europe.”

The sale of Klara Renewables continues CVC DIF’s programme of disciplined divestments to return capital to investors and deliver strong returns, supported by the combined expertise of its Investment and dedicated Divestments teams.

CVC DIF was advised on the transaction by PwC (financial) and Dentons (legal).

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IK Partners to open Madrid Office with the appointment of Gonzalo Fernandez-Albiñana as Partner

IK Partners

IK Partners (“IK” or “the Firm”), a leading European private equity firm, today announces the opening of a new office in Madrid, Spain and the appointment of Gonzalo Fernandez-Albiñana as Partner, effective from 1 September 2026.

Gonzalo will lead IK’s Madrid-based team, which will serve as the Firm’s hub for Iberian investment activity. He will be joined by Alejo Lopez-Balcells, Associate Director within IK’s Mid Cap Investment team, who is relocating to Madrid to support the Firm’s investment activity across the region. Working alongside colleagues across IK, the team will cover the Firm’s Mid Cap, Small Cap, Development Capital and Partnership Fund strategies, enabling IK to support ambitious businesses across a broad range of sizes, sectors and ownership situations.

The opening of the Madrid office represents an important step in IK’s continued European expansion and reinforces the Firm’s commitment to building strong local networks in markets where it sees significant long-term investment potential. With a dedicated multi-strategy team in Spain, IK will be well positioned to partner with founders, management teams and advisors across Spain and Portugal. This new local presence will build on IK’s existing experience in the region, including several add-on acquisitions completed by its portfolio companies.

Gonzalo brings over 25 years of private equity experience and a strong track record of sourcing, executing, managing and exiting buyout and growth investments across Spain and Europe. He joins from Ardian, where he was Managing Director within the Buyout Fund in Spain. Prior to this, Gonzalo held senior investment roles at Investindustrial and 3i Group. Graduating with a double degree from Universidad Pontificia Comillas, he began his career as a consultant at Arthur D. Little. His investment experience includes Monbake and Frulact, both recently and successfully exited, among others.

Christopher Masek, CEO of IK Partners, said: “The opening of our Madrid office is an important milestone for IK as we continue to expand our local presence across Europe. Iberia is a highly attractive market with a deep pool of ambitious founders and management teams, as well as many high-quality businesses that align well with IK’s investment approach. With a dedicated team in Madrid covering our Mid Cap, Small Cap, Development Capital and Partnership Fund strategies, we are well positioned to support businesses across different stages of growth and ownership transition. Gonzalo’s experience, network and strong track record make him an excellent addition to our Partner Group and we are delighted to welcome him to IK.”

Gonzalo Fernandez-Albiñana, Partner at IK Partners and Head of Spain & Portugal, added: “It is a pleasure to have the opportunity to join IK and to lead the Firm’s new office in Madrid. IK has built an impressive platform across Europe, underpinned by deep sector expertise, a rigorous investment culture and an approach based on close collaboration with the management teams and entrepreneurs of the companies it invests in. The Spanish and Portuguese markets offer numerous highly attractive opportunities in ambitious projects that align with the investment strategy of IK’s various funds. Our goal is to be the partner of choice for those managers and entrepreneurs in their next phase of growth, providing our financial support, the help of our operational excellence teams and our international network.”

This announcement follows a significant period of growth for IK, which has seen the Firm invest in 15 new companies and exit six over the last 18 months. During this period, IK fully exited the remaining investments in the IK VII Fund and IK Small Cap I Fund, while also completing the first full exit from the IK IX Fund. IK also held closes on funds totalling €5.8 billion in commitments, including the €3.3 billion close of the IK X Fund, IK’s 10th Mid Cap fund, in April 2025; the €2.0 billion close of the IK Small Cap IV Fund in July 2025; and the €500 million close of the IK Partnership Fund III in October 2025.

ENDS

Gonzalo Fernandez-Albiñana

  • Gonzalo Fernandez-Albiñana joins IK as Partner and will lead the Firm’s Madrid-based team, which will focus on investment opportunities across Spain and the wider Iberian market.
  • Gonzalo brings over 25 years of private equity experience, with significant expertise in buyout and growth investments across Spain and Europe more broadly.
  • Prior to joining IK, Gonzalo was Managing Director within Ardian’s Buyout Fund in Spain. He previously held senior investment roles at Investindustrial and 3i Group and began his career as a consultant at Arthur D. Little.
  • Gonzalo graduated with a double degree from Universidad Pontificia Comillas.

For further questions, please contact:

IK Partners

Vidya Verlkumar
Phone: +44 (0) 7787 558 193
vidya.verlkumar@ikpartners.com

H/Advisors UK
Finlay Donaldson
Phone: +44 (0) 7341 788 066
finlay.donaldson@h-advisors.global

About IK Partners

IK Partners (“IK”) is a European private equity firm focused on investments in the Benelux, DACH, France, Iberia, Nordics and the UK. Since 1989, IK has raised more than €20 billion of capital and invested in over 210 European companies. IK supports companies with strong underlying potential, partnering with management teams and investors to create robust, well-positioned businesses with excellent long-term prospects. For more information, visit ikpartners.com IK is an affiliate of the Wendel Group. For more information, visit wendelgroup.com

Categories: People

CapMan Growth exits its stake in marketing services company Aste

Capman

CapMan Growth exits its stake in marketing services company Aste

CapMan Growth Equity Fund 2017 has signed an agreement to divest its ownership in Aste Holding Oy. The company will be acquired by Eniro Treasury AB, a subsidiary of the Swedish listed company Eniro Group AB. With the transaction, CapMan Growth concludes a successful investment during which Aste has renewed its business from print-based media into a broad-based provider of marketing and communications services. The exit marks the ninth for CapMan Growth Equity Fund 2017 and the eleventh for CapMan Growth.

Aste is a marketing and media partner that combines creative design, multichannel production and technology solutions into a seamless offering across channels. The company’s largest customer groups include media companies, retailers, telecom operators, as well as organisations and associations. Aste’s business model is based on long-term and recurring customer relationships, where the company works as an integrated part of its customers’ processes. The company employs around 140 professionals, and its revenue in 2025 was approximately EUR 12.3 million.

CapMan Growth became a minority owner in Aste in 2018. The investment was made to support the company’s development from a print media operator into a provider of digital media services at a time when the print media market was contracting and demand for digital services was increasing. During CapMan Growth’s ownership, Aste has managed to maintain its profitability and revenue level in a challenging market environment where many competitors have faced declining revenue. The company’s numerous multi-year partnerships also reflect high customer satisfaction.

Aste returned to a growth path in 2025 and strengthened its position by signing agreements with significant customers. Against this backdrop, the company was considered ready for its next phase of development with the support of a new owner.

“Aste is a great example of a company that has systematically renewed its business and remained profitable even in a challenging market. The team has done excellent work, and during our ownership Aste has developed into a strong and versatile marketing partner,” says Antti Kummu, Managing Partner at CapMan Growth. “We believe that, with its new owner, Aste is well positioned to continue its growth, and we thank the company’s management and personnel for the good collaboration.”

Aki Nykänen serves as CEO of Aste Holding Oy.

“The collaboration with CapMan Growth has supported the development of our company and the execution of our strategy over several years. We have built a strong and profitable business, and becoming part of Eniro opens up new opportunities for Aste to continue its growth,” says Nykänen.

Eniro Group AB, the buyer of the company, is a Nordic company listed on Nasdaq Stockholm. The shares in Aste Holding Oy will be transferred to its subsidiary Eniro Treasury AB.

For more information:

Antti Kummu, Managing Partner, CapMan Growth, +358 50 432 4486

About CapMan

CapMan is a leading Nordic private asset expert with an active approach to value creation and 7.2 billion euros in assets under management. As one of the private equity pioneers in the Nordics we have developed hundreds of companies and assets creating significant value for over three decades. Our objective is to provide attractive returns and innovative solutions to investors by enabling change across our portfolio companies. An example of this is greenhouse gas reduction targets that we have set under the Science Based Targets initiative in line with the 1.5°C scenario and our commitment to net-zero GHG emissions by 2040. We have a broad presence in the unlisted market through our local and specialised teams. Our investment strategies cover real estate and infrastructure assets, real asset debt, natural capital and minority and majority investments in portfolio companies. We also provide wealth management solutions. Altogether, CapMan employs around 200 professionals in Helsinki, Jyväskylä, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo, London, Luxembourg, and Düsseldorf. We are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki since 2001. www.capman.com.

About Aste

Aste is a trusted partner in marketing and media, combining creative design, multichannel production and technological solutions into a seamless service across channels. The company’s customers include media companies, retailers, telecom operators, as well as organisations and associations. Aste employs around 140 professionals and generated revenue of approximately EUR 12.3 million in 2025.

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Ardian Semiconductor invests in VSORA, an innovative AI inference accelerator fabless company

Ardian

Ardian, a global private investment firm, today announces that Ardian Semiconductor has completed a minority investment in VSORA, a France‑based semiconductor fabless company designing next‑generation AI inference accelerators for data center applications. This transaction represents Ardian Semiconductor’s 4th investment and further expands its exposure across the AI & semiconductor value chain, following the acquisitions of IBS, Synergie Cad, and Centrotherm.

Through its investment, Ardian Semiconductor will support VSORA in accelerating its go‑to‑market strategy to strengthen the company’s recognition across the value chain and reinforce VSORA’s access to senior semiconductor industry expertise.

Founded in 2015 and headquartered in France, VSORA is a fabless chip design company focused on solving the “memory wall” challenge in accelerators used for AI inference workloads. The company has developed a highly differentiated architecture optimized for AI inference, delivering significant improvements in total cost of ownership, latency, and power efficiency. VSORA is the most advanced European player addressing a large and fast-growing market opportunity for AI accelerators optimized for inference applications having secured its position in the most advanced semiconductor supply chains.

VSORA is also a member of the AION consortium, which is led by Ardian, Artefact, Bull, Capgemini, EDF, the iliad Group, Orange and Scaleway, and aims to launch an ambitious bid under the European Union’s AI Gigafactories initiative.

Ardian invested alongside Management, existing shareholders, and new strategic and financial investors.

Ardian Semiconductor, a pioneering private equity investment platform dedicated to the semiconductor industry, was formed by Ardian through an exclusive strategic partnership with Silian Partners, a team of highly successful senior executives from the semiconductor industry totaling more than 140 years of experience, contributing unique industry relationships, strategic vision, and operational focus. Ardian and Silian Partners work as one team to bring innovative and flexible capital solutions, as well as strategic and operational capabilities, to transform strong technology companies into global leaders in their market segments. Ardian Semiconductor is uniquely positioned to seize opportunities in the semiconductor industry, a critical enabler of the digital transformation, AI revolution and green transition of the global economy.

“Ardian Semiconductor’s investment validates our strategy and gives us the means to accelerate the deployment of Jotunn8 — in pursuit of one clear ambition: to make VSORA a global leader in AI inference.” Khaled Maleej, Co-Founder & CEO, VSORA

“We are proud to invest in VSORA, which strongly aligns with our mission to support European semiconductor companies developing breakthrough technologies in high‑growth segments. VSORA has the potential to become a key player in AI inference for datacenters, and we are committed to bringing the strategic, operational and financial resources required to support its ambition.” Lise Fauconnier, Co-Head of Ardian Semiconductor and Senior Managing Director, Ardian

“We are highly impressed by VSORA’s breakthrough architecture, the exceptional expertise of its technical team, and its proven ability to execute against a complex and ambitious product roadmap. As demand for high-performance, energy-efficient AI inference solutions continues to accelerate, VSORA is uniquely positioned to address a critical market need. We look forward to supporting the management team as the company enters its next phase of growth, commercial expansion, and innovation.” Christophe Duverne, Co-Founder & Partner, Silian Partners

ABOUT ARDIAN

In a world of constant evolution, Ardian stands out for its ability to anticipate, adapt, and turn challenges into opportunities. As a global, diversified private markets firm with 22 offices and more than 350 investment professionals worldwide, we provide investment and customized solutions that reflect new economic dynamics and help our clients remain resilient in a changing world.
We deliver multi-local expertise and long-term performance for our investors and partners as well as shared value for the broader society. Since Ardian’s inception in 1996, our pioneering approach to diversification and our ability to offer tailor-made solutions at scale have remained the heart of our strategy.
Through commitment, knowledge and technology, we bring lasting value to our companies and contribute positively to the whole industry.
Ardian currently manages or advises $200bn for more than 1,920 clients worldwide across Private Equity, Real Assets, and Credit.
Ardian. Mastering change for lasting value.

ardian.com

ABOUT VSORA

VSORA is a French semiconductor company developing AI inference infrastructure designed to make AI deployment economically viable.
Its inference processor, Jotunn8, is purpose-built to overcome the memory wall, one of the main barriers to efficient AI inference, enabling operators to run AI with significantly lower infrastructure costs and energy consumption.
Following a successful tape-out in 2025, Jotunn8 is entering manufacturing. Designed for datacenter-scale inference workloads, it delivers the performance, efficiency, and economics required to scale AI in the real world.
Headquartered in France, VSORA is backed by the European Innovation Council (EIC) and works with leading industry partners, including TSMC and Global Unichip Corp (GUC), to bring next-generation AI processors from architecture to silicon.

www.vsora.com

Media contacts

ARDIAN

HEADLAND

ardian@headlandconsultancy.com 

VSORA

Iman LMEHDI

iman.lmehdi@vsora.com 

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SK and KKR Launch Korea’s Largest Renewable Energy Platform

KKR

New renewable energy platform with ~1.7GW of capacity in operation – and a pipeline that brings total capacity to 10GW – to meet Korea’s surging clean-power demand from AI data centers and semiconductor manufacturing

SEOUL, South Korea–(BUSINESS WIRE)– SK Inc. (“SK”) and KKR, a leading global investment firm, today announced the signing of definitive agreements under which funds managed by KKR and SK will launch Korea’s largest renewable energy platform valued at KRW 2 trillion (~$1.3 billion). Through this newly established platform (“Platform”), SK and KKR will bring together renewable energy assets previously held by SK affiliates spanning solar, onshore and offshore wind, and fuel cells into a single, integrated platform, tapping into each company’s respective operational experience and renewables investment expertise.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260625373798/en/

The launch of the Platform marks the latest transaction between KKR and SK, deepening a longstanding relationship built across multiple collaborations. It will help Korea meet the surging demand for clean power from AI data centers, semiconductor production lines, and other large industrial needs. KKR will have management control of the platform in its initial phase, with SK participating as an equity investor and retaining the flexibility to pursue control rights through future discussions.

By bringing together renewable businesses and assets from SK Innovation, SK ecoplant, and SK eternix, the Platform integrates the entire value chain, from development and construction through to operation and maintenance, enhancing economies of scale and operational efficiency. The Platform will manage a portfolio covering all areas of renewable energy generation – except hydrogen – including solar, offshore and onshore wind, and fuel cells.

The Platform will be Korea’s largest renewable energy business, with approximately 1.7GW of capacity currently in operation and a development pipeline that will bring the total capacity to 10GW, which is capable of simultaneously and continuously powering 100 large-scale, 100MW-class data centers. At this scale, the Platform is well positioned to become a reliable, large-scale source of clean power for Korea’s most demanding industrial users, from AI data centers to global semiconductor production lines, and more.

Keith Kim, Partner at KKR, commented, “We are delighted to work alongside SK, a strategic partner with deep local operational capability. Korea is one of Asia’s most attractive renewable energy markets, underpinned by strong corporate demand for clean power from the semiconductor, data center, and manufacturing sectors. Together, we are establishing a leading, scaled renewable energy platform that can supply reliable clean power to Korea’s most demanding industrial users.”

SK is integrating these renewable energy businesses as part of a proactive portfolio rebalancing aimed at strengthening their sustainability and competitiveness. By combining the capital strength of a global fund with SK’s execution capability, SK aims to respond to surging clean energy demand and build a sustainable growth model over the long term.

KKR is making this investment primarily from its Asia Pacific infrastructure strategy. KKR is one of the most active infrastructure investors globally, with over $100 billion in infrastructure assets under management and more than $31 billion invested into energy transition and renewables infrastructure since 2011. Across Asia Pacific, KKR has invested behind the region’s energy transition through platforms such as Serentica Renewables, a clean-energy platform delivering power to large-scale industrial users in India; CleanPeak Energy, a distributed-energy platform in Australia; and Zenith Energy, an off-grid energy solution platform in Australia.

SK plans to use the launch of the Platform as an opportunity to strengthen the foundation and support the growth of its renewable energy business, while continuing to restructure its portfolio in a direction that enhances capital efficiency and business competitiveness.

About KKR
KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com. For additional information about Global Atlantic Financial Group, please visit Global Atlantic Financial Group’s website at www.globalatlantic.com.

About SK Inc.
SK Inc. is the holding company of SK Group, with approximately 150 subsidiaries including SK Hynix, SK Innovation, SK Telecom, SK Square, SKC, SK Ecoplant, and SK Networks. SK Inc. leads value-up initiatives such as maximizing profitability, optimizing investment assets, and strengthening cash flow management to reinforce the fundamental competitiveness of its subsidiaries. In addition, SK Inc. is actively reshaping its portfolio to ensure optimal business alignment and maximize synergies across the group. Through ESG management, which is SK’s distinctive strength, SK Inc. is taking the lead in pursuing social value and in line with the entrepreneurial spirit and corporate role that society demands, SK Inc. continues to drive sustainable growth and create stakeholder value through relentless challenge and innovation, even amid a rapidly changing global business environment.

Media Contacts

For KKR:
Wei Jun Ong
+65 6922 5813
WeiJun.Ong@kkr.com

James Jarman
+65 8870 6452
James.Jarman@kkr.com

For SK Inc.:
Dong Hoon Kim
dhkim3412@sk.com

Jae Seok Heo
js.heo@sk.com

Source: KKR and SK Inc.

 

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KKR to Acquire EDF power solutions’ North American Operations for $4.2 Billion

KKR

Acquisition of Leading Provider of Low-Carbon Energy Solutions Represents KKR’s Largest Individual Investment in the Renewables Sector

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– KKR, a leading global investment firm, today announced that KKR has agreed to acquire the operations and assets of EDF power solutions in the United States (EDF power solutions Inc.) and Canada (EDF power solutions Canada Inc.) from EDF group, one of the world’s largest power producers. This transaction values the equity interest in EDF power solutions Inc. and EDF power solutions Canada Inc. at approximately $4.2 billion, with potential additional payments of up to $0.39 billion. Collectively, these businesses represent EDF power solutions’ North American renewable operations.

EDF power solutions North America is among the top ten owners of renewable energy capacity in the United States, with a nearly 40-year track record of delivering clean energy solutions across the U.S. and Canada. The company owns and operates a diversified portfolio of solar, wind, and battery storage assets across multiple geographies and manages an integrated platform spanning project development, construction, and long-term operations and maintenance (O&M) and asset management. EDF power solutions North America serves a broad base of utilities, corporations, and institutional customers.

Under KKR’s ownership, EDF power solutions North America will have the resources and strategic support to expand its asset base, enhance operational performance, and accelerate its development pipeline.

“With power demand anticipated to increase in the United States due to the rapid expansion of data centers, manufacturing reshoring, and broader electrification, KKR’s investment in EDF power solutions North America supports the critical need for affordable power,” said Cecilio Velasco, Managing Director, KKR. “EDF power solutions North America’s scale, operational track record, and integrated capabilities position it to meet that demand, particularly through its diversified portfolio and project pipeline. We look forward to supporting the platform’s continued growth and ultimately the United States’ broader energy security and affordability goals.”

KKR brings deep expertise and a proven track record investing in renewables, having deployed more than $26 billion globally across renewables and energy transition investments to date. KKR is funding this transaction from its global infrastructure strategy. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

About KKR

KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com. For additional information about Global Atlantic Financial Group, please visit Global Atlantic Financial Group’s website at www.globalatlantic.com.

Media:

KKR
Liidia Liuksila
media@kkr.com

Source: KKR

 

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