Category Archives: News

Apollo Closes Accord Fund VII at $1.9 Billion

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Brings Total Capital Raised Across Accord Dislocation Complex to $11.6 Billion Since Inception

NEW YORK, May 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apollo (NYSE: APO) today announced the final close of Apollo Accord Fund VII (“Accord VII” or the “Fund”) with $1.9 billion in total commitments, reflecting broad support from a global and diverse group of investors including pension funds, financial institutions, endowments, foundations and family offices.

Accord VII is the latest vintage of the Firm’s flagship Accord Dislocation Series, which has raised $11.6 billion since inception in 2017. The strategy pursues dislocated liquid credit during periods of market volatility, as well as select idiosyncratic and issuer-driven opportunities in more stable market environments. The investment approach emphasizes a diversified portfolio of highly defensible positions targeting the top of the capital structure, across both primary and secondary markets.

“We are operating in a period of heightened volatility driven by elevated valuations, increased geopolitical and macroeconomic risk and rapid AI-driven disruption,” said Chris Lahoud, Partner and Deputy Co-Head of Hybrid at Apollo. “In this environment, markets reward judgment, scale and disciplined underwriting. We believe periods of volatility and dispersion create compelling opportunities for capital providers who are prepared to act decisively.”

Akila Grewal, Global Head of the Institutional Client Group at Apollo, added, “We are grateful for the continued support of our investors globally. The strong demand for Accord VII reflects sustained confidence in the strategy and the important role it plays within diversified portfolios. In dynamic market environments, we believe the Fund’s flexible mandate can help investors take advantage of volatility with an emphasis on senior positioning within the capital structure.”

Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP represented Apollo in connection with the closing of Accord VII.

About Apollo
Apollo is a high-growth, global alternative asset manager. In our asset management business, we seek to provide our clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum from investment grade credit to private equity. For more than three decades, our investing expertise across our fully integrated platform has served the financial return needs of our clients and provided businesses with innovative capital solutions for growth. Through Athene, our retirement services business, we specialize in helping clients achieve financial security by providing a suite of retirement savings products and acting as a solutions provider to institutions. Our patient, creative, and knowledgeable approach to investing aligns our clients, businesses we invest in, our employees, and the communities we impact, to expand opportunity and achieve positive outcomes. As of December 31, 2025, Apollo had approximately $938 billion of assets under management. To learn more, please visit www.apollo.com.

Contacts
Noah Gunn
Global Head of Investor Relations
+1 (212) 822-0540
IR@apollo.com

Joanna Rose
Global Head of Corporate Communications
+1 (212) 822-0491
Communications@apollo.com

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CapMan Infra acquires majority stake in Nordic helicopter services provider HeliAir Sweden

Capman

CapMan Infra has agreed to acquire a majority stake in HeliAir Sweden, a leading Nordic helicopter operator and lessor providing mission-critical aerial services including firefighting, power and utilities, defence and other specialised applications.   

Headquartered in Sweden, HeliAir has built a strong position in the Nordic market and serves a diversified customer base across the public and private sectors. The company provides critical helicopter services including aerial firefighting, electricity grid inspections, vegetation management, military training support and other specialised operations. HeliAir’s offering is supported by vertically integrated teams and in-house capabilities across maintenance, fuelling, and training.

CapMan Infra’s investment will support HeliAir in its next phase of growth. The focus is to further strengthen the company’s market position in its core segments, supporting continued fleet development and expanding its service offering in selected markets. HeliAir’s role in supporting essential public services and infrastructure operations makes the company a strong fit with CapMan Infra’s focus on resilient, mission-critical businesses.

“We are pleased to partner with HeliAir in its next phase of growth. The company has built a strong position in a market with high requirements for safety, availability and specialised operational expertise, supported by a high-quality fleet. Its services support public safety and critical infrastructure, and we look forward to supporting the company’s continued development together with the management team,”says Ibrahim Makdessi, Investment Manager at CapMan Infra.

“This is an important step for HeliAir,” says Joel Backlund, CEO of HeliAir. “With CapMan Infra as our new majority owner, we will have a strong partner to support our growth ambitions, further invest in our fleet and capabilities, and continue delivering reliable, high-quality services to our customers across the Nordics and selected European markets.”

For more information, please contact:

Ibrahim Makdessi, Investment Manager, CapMan Infra, +46 72 341 01 11, ibrahim.makdessi@capman.com

Joel Backlund, CEO, HeliAir, +46 70 786 76 00, joel.backlund@heliairsweden.com

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.

 

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Power Home Remodeling Secures Investment from Bain Capital, Sixth Street, and Harvest Partners Structured Capital

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BainCapital

nvestment to support the continued expansion of the leading home remodeling company

Chester, Pa. – May 4, 2026 – Power Home Remodeling (“POWER”), the nation’s leading exterior home remodeler, today announced that it has secured a growth investment from Bain Capital, Sixth Street, and Harvest Partners Structured Capital. The firms will partner with POWER’s management team and existing investor, Harvest Partners, whose funds remain the largest investor, to support the company’s continued expansion. To date, POWER has served more than one million customers across 26 territories nationwide.

POWER has delivered consistent growth over the past decade, gaining meaningful share in the highly fragmented, multi-billion-dollar home improvement market. As one of the few scaled national players in exterior home remodeling, the company has differentiated itself through a centralized operating model and a proprietary platform that supports its sales, installation, and customer experience processes at scale. That operating discipline is reinforced by a culture of excellence that has developed leaders from within, supported growth to more than 5,000 employees, and earned the company repeated recognition as a top workplace across industries.

“Over the past 30 years, we have built POWER into one of the largest full-service exterior home remodelers in the United States,” said co-CEOs Asher Raphael and Corey Schiller. “We are committed to delivering exceptional results for homeowners through strong customer relationships, our proprietary technology platform, and a deep commitment to talent development. We see significant opportunity ahead, and this investment will help us continue to grow and scale while further strengthening our market position.”

The investment will support POWER’s next phase of growth as the company continues to expand its footprint, invest in its proprietary operating platform, build on the talent development, corporate culture, and sales model that have helped it differentiate at scale.

“POWER is a market leader and one of the few scaled national players in the fast-growing repair and remodeling sector,” said Cristian Jitianu, a Partner at Bain Capital Special Situations. “The company has built a proven, repeatable model with a differentiated platform and significant runway for continued growth. We look forward to partnering with POWER to support continued innovation and long-term value creation.”

“Asher, Corey, and team have built an incredible business with a differentiated value proposition within the resilient home repair and remodeling sector,” said Kayvan Heravi, Partner and Co-Head of Consumer at Sixth Street. “We are excited to partner with the POWER team, Harvest Partners, and Bain Capital, and look forward to supporting the company’s long-term growth.”

“Since investing in the company in 2022, Harvest Partners has been proud to support POWER’s nationwide expansion, and we’re excited to partner with Bain Capital and Sixth Street to drive the company’s next stage of development,” said Nick Romano, Partner at Harvest Partners. “This is a great outcome for the company’s employees and customers, as well as our investors.”

Harris Williams served as financial advisor, and Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal advisor to Harvest Partners and POWER. Bank of America and Rothschild & Co also served as financial advisors to Harvest Partners and POWER. Ropes & Gray served as legal advisor to Bain Capital. Goldman Sachs served as exclusive financial advisor, and Latham & Watkins served as legal advisor to Sixth Street.

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About Power Home Remodeling
POWER is the nation’s largest, full-service, exterior home remodeler with more than 5,000 employees, over one million lifetime customers, and $1.7 billion in annual revenue. Established in 1992 and headquartered in the Philadelphia region, POWER’s primary product line includes windows, siding, roofing, gutters, doors, solar roofing panel, and attic insulation, providing energy-saving solutions to residents across its operating territories, including Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin. At POWER, we believe that every home, person, and community has potential, and everything we do is in service of bringing that potential to life. That belief led us to create Power for Good, which amplifies the vision and voices of our people to drive our philanthropic efforts. Learn how Our Work Shows at www.powerhrg.com.

About Bain Capital
Founded in 1984, Bain Capital is one of the world’s leading private investment firms. We are committed to creating lasting impact for our investors, teams, businesses, and the communities in which we live. As a private partnership, we lead with conviction and a culture of collaboration, advantages that enable us to innovate investment approaches, unlock opportunities, and create exceptional outcomes. Our global platform invests across five focus areas: Private Equity, Growth & Venture, Capital Solutions, Credit & Capital Markets, and Real Assets. In these focus areas, we bring deep sector expertise and wide-ranging capabilities. We have 24 offices on four continents, more than 1,850 employees, and approximately $225 billion in assets under management. To learn more, visit www.baincapital.com. Follow @BainCapital on LinkedIn and X (Twitter).

About Sixth Street
Sixth Street is a global investment firm with over $130 billion in assets under management and committed capital. The firm uses its long-term flexible capital, data-enabled capabilities, and One Team culture to develop themes and offer solutions to companies across all stages of growth. Sixth Street’s dedicated consumer investing team provides strategic capital solutions to companies operating in a range of subsectors and business models. Sixth Street has partnered with many leading brands including Airbnb, Bay FC, Chobani, Crunch Fitness, Equinox, FC Barcelona, Legends Global, Milan Laser, Mindbody, Real Madrid, Spotify, the Boston Celtics, the New England Patriots, the San Antonio Spurs, the San Francisco Giants, and Wingstop. Sixth Street has more than 750 team members, including approximately 300 investment professionals operating across the firm’s global locations. For more information, and additional disclosures, visit www.sixthstreet.com and follow Sixth Street on LinkedIn.

About Harvest Partners
Founded in 1981, Harvest Partners is an established private equity firm with over 40 years of experience investing in middle-market companies and partnering with high-quality management teams to build growing businesses. Harvest Partners Structured Capital is the firm’s non-control investing strategy.  The firm invests in service-oriented business across four core sectors: business services & industrials, commercial services, consumer services and healthcare services. This strategy leverages Harvest Partners’ multi-decade experience in financing organic and acquisition-oriented growth opportunities. The firm has over $20 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2025. For more information, please visit
www.harvestpartners.com.

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Eddie de Sciora

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HAL sells stake in Rotter Y Kraus

Hal Investments

HAL has signed an agreement to sell its ownership interest in RyK Holding S.p.A. (‘Rotter y Krauss’) to Inversiones SB S.A. (‘Empresas SB’). The transaction is expected to result in a capital gain of approximately € 26 million. Rotter y Krauss is an optical retail chain active in the Chilean market since 1914. HAL has been a shareholder of Rotter y Krauss, both directly and through its investment in GrandVision N.V., since 2008. Empresas SB is a retail group based in Chile, specialized in health, beauty and wellness products. Completion of the transaction is subject to customary approvals from the relevant authorities.

HAL Holding N.V.
May 4, 2026
19h15

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Meloche Group Acquires Groupe Rossi Aéro with Support from Novacap and Other Partners

Novacap

A transaction that strengthens the group’s role at the heart of the aerospace supply chain in Québec and internationally, and paves the way for expansion into new markets.

Meloche Group announces the acquisition of Groupe Rossi Aéro, a subsidiary of Mecachrome and a recognized player in the aerospace industry serving both civil and military sectors in France. This transaction marks an important step in Meloche Group’s growth strategy aimed at a global-scale aerospace platform.

Already firmly established within the North American aerospace ecosystem, Meloche Group is, through this acquisition, strengthening its presence in Europe and its ability to serve major industry customers globally. The group is thus reaching critical scale, with revenues exceeding CAD $250 million, more than 900 employees, and an industrial footprint spanning eight sites, including six in Québec and two in the Toulouse region.

“This transaction marks an important milestone in Meloche Group’s evolution,” said Hugue Meloche, President and Chief Executive Officer of Meloche Group. “With the integration of Groupe Rossi Aéro, we are strengthening our ability to support our clients internationally while consolidating our presence in Québec. Our ambition is clear: to continue building a high-performing group capable of expanding into new markets and increasing its presence within the global aerospace industry.”

“With this partnership, we are contributing to the creation of an internationally scaled aerospace platform,” said Michel Toutant, Senior Partner, Industries, Novacap. “Meloche Group aligns perfectly with our value creation strategy. Its recognized leadership within the aerospace ecosystem positions it well to continue its growth and pursue strategic opportunities. Novacap is proud to support Québec and Canadian entrepreneurs in executing their growth strategies and expanding their operations.”

A Transatlantic Platform Serving the Industry

The integration of Groupe Rossi Aéro enables Meloche Group to expand its industrial footprint in Europe and offer an integrated solution for the manufacturing of metal components, from machining to assembly. The group now benefits from facilities located near major aerospace hubs in Montréal and Toulouse.

This positioning simplifies program management for clients, reduces supply risks, and optimizes production timelines, while strengthening the group’s ability to integrate into critical supply chains, both in aerospace and defense.

On the European side, Groupe Rossi Aéro is joining a partner that shares a strong commitment to growth and long-term investment, and that intends to build on the momentum already established by continuing to expand the group’s activities and industrial sites near its customers in France.

A Transaction Aligned with a Sustainable Growth Strategy

This acquisition is part of a development trajectory supported by Novacap as majority shareholder, as well as by the Government of Québec, Investissement Québec (IQ), and Export Development Canada (EDC). Together, these partners support Meloche Group in strengthening its operational capabilities and expanding its international presence, particularly in Europe.

This partnership with Meloche Group is based on a shared vision: to build a high-performing industrial platform capable of meeting the requirements of major global customers and expanding into new markets, including defense.

“EDC is proud to support Meloche Group in this acquisition of Groupe Rossi,” said Alison Nankivell, President and Chief Executive Officer of EDC. “This transaction reflects the ambition of Canadian companies to grow in Europe and export their expertise, while helping secure and diversify supply chains in an evolving global environment. Through its support, EDC helps companies enhance their competitiveness, invest beyond our borders, and meet the needs of strategically important sectors for Canada.”

A Driver of Québec’s Competitiveness and Global Reach

By strengthening its presence in Europe, Meloche Group contributes to showcasing Québec’s expertise on the international stage and to better integrating supply chains between North America and Europe. This transaction aligns with efforts to support the development of an innovative and competitive industrial base in Québec, while stimulating the local economy.

“This acquisition strengthens the strategic role of the aerospace industry within Québec’s economy, and is therefore excellent news,” said Bernard Drainville, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy and Minister Responsible for Maritime Strategy. “By expanding its presence in Europe, Meloche Group is simultaneously reinforcing its roots here in Québec. Our government is proud to support ambitious companies that showcase our aerospace expertise and strengthen Québec’s position in key sectors of the global economy.”

“Meloche Group is one of the most significant SMEs in Québec’s aerospace sector,” said Bicha Ngo, President and Chief Executive Officer of IQ. “Our presence alongside the company at this pivotal stage of its development is fully aligned with our role in supporting the growth of high-potential businesses both locally and internationally, while helping maintain their Québec roots and strengthen key sectors of our economy.”

About Meloche Group

Founded in 1974, Meloche Group is a family-owned company committed to delivering high-quality products to the aerospace industry in Canada and internationally. The company provides integrated manufacturing solutions for aerospace components and assemblies, including design, engineering, manufacturing, finishing, and logistics. Meloche Group operates four manufacturing sites in Québec, located in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Bromont, Hemmingford, and Montréal, with its headquarters in Beauharnois and its innovation centre in Brossard. With a diversified client portfolio, the company employs more than 600 people. For more information: www.melocheinc.com

About Groupe Rossi Aéro

Founded in 1976 by Jacques Rossi, Groupe Rossi Aéro is a recognized player in aerospace subcontracting. Acquired starting in 2009 by Mathieu Rossi and his spouse Céline Rossi Carrasco, the company developed alongside its teams as a specialist in rapid manufacturing of parts and sub-assemblies for the aerospace industry. The group brings together integrated expertise in precision machining, sheet metal work, surface treatment, and assembly. Groupe Mecachrome acquired Groupe Rossi Aéro in 2022, in a context of significant industrial challenges, providing the support needed to stabilize, secure, and grow its operations. With three sites in the Toulouse region, the group employs nearly 300 people. Customer satisfaction, on-time delivery, and quality are at the core of its DNA.

About Novacap

Novacap is a leading investor and one of Canada’s most experienced private equity firms in Canada. Founded in 1981 to partner with visionary entrepreneurs, Novacap focuses on middle market and lower-middle market companies in four core sectors: Technologies, Digital Infrastructure, Industries, and Financial Services. Novacap combines deep sector specific expertise and strategic and operational excellence to partner with entrepreneurs and management teams. Since its inception, the firm has made primary and add-on investments in more than 250 companies. With over CDN $16 billion in assets under management, Novacap accelerates value creation through strategic growth initiatives and a strong focus on execution. For more information: www.novacapcorp.com

About Investissement Québec

Investissement Québec’s mission is to play an active role in Québec’s economic development. The Corporation’s services are designed to spur productivity, innovation, market development and the competitiveness of Québec businesses. To that end, Investissement Québec supports them at every stage of their growth with financing and assistance in the areas of business consulting, technological transformation and workforce strategies. In addition, through Investissement Québec International, the Corporation also provides concrete support for businesses’ export activities and conducts prospecting activities to attract foreign investment to Québec.

About Export Development Canada

Export Development Canada (EDC) is a financial Crown corporation dedicated to helping Canadian businesses make an impact at home and abroad. EDC has the financial products and knowledge Canadian companies need to confidently enter new markets, reduce financial risk and grow their business as they go from local to global. Together, EDC and Canadian companies are building a more prosperous, stronger and sustainable economy for all Canadians. To learn more about EDC or how we can support your business, call 1-800-229-0575 or visit www.edc.ca

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Flow Control Group to Receive Investment from Neuberger Private Markets

KKR

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Flow Control Group (“the Company” or “FCG”), a leading North American network of technical flow control and industrial automation distributors and solutions providers, today announced that KKR, the Company’s existing investor, and Neuberger Private Markets (“Neuberger”) have agreed to jointly acquire the Company. As part of this transaction, funds managed by KKR will maintain majority ownership of FCG, with Neuberger holding a significant minority interest in the Company.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260429172174/en/

Since KKR’s initial acquisition of Flow Control Group in 2021, the Company has scaled into a preeminent platform in the distribution sector with revenue and EBITDA more than tripling over KKR’s ownership period. This has been driven by a strategy focused on growing the business organically, while also expanding through strategic acquisitions. By advancing cross-selling, expanding technical service capabilities, and investing extensively in digital and IT infrastructure, KKR has helped broaden the Company’s reach across new end-markets and strengthen technical offerings that serve critical North American industries.

This growth includes substantial investments in FCG’s workforce of over 1,000 technical sales professionals and 600 service technicians, who support customers in key end-markets like water & wastewater, life sciences, aerospace & defense, food & beverage, power generation, and high-growth segments such as data centers and advanced automation. Through differentiated training and recruitment efforts, FCG has invested extensively in its best-in-class workforce. These efforts have allowed FCG to take a differentiated partnership approach with suppliers and customers.

“Flow Control Group exemplifies KKR’s approach of taking great businesses to the next level through a combination of strategic acquisitions and operational value creation,” said Josh Weisenbeck, Partner at KKR that leads KKR’s Industrials industry team within KKR’s North American private equity platform. “We are proud of the progress achieved to date and look forward to strategically partnering with Neuberger’s Private Markets team, FCG’s management team, and the many highly engaged employee-owners to support the Company’s next phase of growth.”

“We’ve followed Flow Control Group’s evolution over the past decade,” said David Stonberg, Deputy Head of Neuberger Private Markets, “and we view the platform as a best-in-class distributor and key technical provider for its customers in industries benefiting from favorable tailwinds. As a result of its strong technical differentiation, resilient business model, and proven track record of growth, we couldn’t be more pleased to collaborate with KKR, the management team, and FCG’s employee-owners to support the Company’s continued expansion and long-term value creation.”

At the time of KKR’s 2021 acquisition, KKR implemented a broad-based ownership program, whereby all employees of Flow Control Group became owners in the Company.

“One of the most impactful parts of working with KKR was their focus on employee ownership and engagement,” said Raymond Aronoff, Chief Executive Officer and President of Flow Control Group. “Throughout our strategic partnership, we’ve created a winning culture oriented around ownership. This includes our ‘Pathway to the Summit’ – a shared strategic vision to guide employee-owners toward a successful financial outcome for all stakeholders. Alignment around a strong vision of value-added distribution and technical services, coupled with a true sense of ownership by all employees, supported FCG’s transformation into a scaled platform focused on delivering critical products, solutions, and technical expertise to our valued customers and suppliers. KKR has played a critical role in supporting our growth, and we are excited to welcome Neuberger as we continue to expand our capabilities, invest in our team, and pursue new opportunities across our markets.”

As part of this ownership program and contingent on the successful closing of the sale, all of the Company’s more than 3,000 employees will receive cash payouts. With a continued commitment to employee ownership, KKR and Neuberger intend to re-establish the broad-based ownership program at FCG following the closing. Neuberger has also been a member of Ownership Works’ coalition of financial services partners that support the creation of financial opportunity for all employees and build stronger businesses in the process.

The transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to close in Q2 2026.

KKR and FCG were advised by Solomon Partners as financial and M&A advisor, and Kirkland & Ellis and Debevoise served as legal advisors on this transaction. Evercore served as financial advisor and Latham & Watkins served as legal advisor to Neuberger.

About Flow Control Group

Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Flow Control Group is a systems-oriented industrial solutions company powered by a network of over 120 specialized distribution and service providers across the U.S. and Canada. Combining distribution strength, technical expertise, engineered systems, automation and service, FCG helps customers operate at the highest levels of efficiency and solve complex operational challenges across their facilities.

Through access to more than 3,000 suppliers and deep industry and application knowledge, Flow Control Group supports critical flow, control, and automation systems across a wide range of end markets.

About Neuberger Private Markets

Neuberger Private Markets is a division of Neuberger and has been an active and successful private markets investor since 1987. Neuberger Private Markets invests across strategies, asset classes, and geographies for a large number of sophisticated and renowned institutions and individuals globally. As of December 31, 2025, Neuberger Private Markets manages over $155 billion of investor commitments across primaries, co-investments, secondaries, private credit, and specialty strategies. Neuberger Private Markets has an experienced and diverse team of over 500 professionals with a global presence in 17 offices globally.

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 Contacts

Flow Control Group
Karrie Williams
fcgcommunications@flowcontrolgroup.com

Neuberger
Soogyung Jordan
soogyung.jordan@nb.com

KKR
Sarah Moon
media@kkr.com

Source: KKR

 

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KKR Makes Strategic Investment to Accelerate Growth of MLS NEXT Pro

KKR

Major League Soccer and KKR Establish Hometown Soccer Holdings to Drive New Market Opportunities and Community Engagement

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Major League Soccer (“MLS”) and KKR, a leading global investment firm, today announced a strategic investment to accelerate the growth of MLS NEXT Pro. In connection, MLS and funds managed by KKR have formed Hometown Soccer Holdings (“HSH”), a new platform created to support the evolution of MLS NEXT Pro.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260429382066/en/

The partnership will serve as MLS NEXT Pro’s commercial engine, supporting stadium development in new communities, creating new club brands for MLS-affiliated teams, and enhancing the fan experience through high-energy matchday environments at fan-friendly venues with distinct local identities. The investment will support the growth of the sport and the reach of MLS NEXT Pro.

“Having KKR as a strategic partner is a significant step forward for MLS NEXT Pro and will strengthen player development across the U.S. and Canada,” said Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber. “This investment will help build and grow MLS NEXT Pro and reflects our ambition to expand into new markets, develop soccer-specific infrastructure, elevate the matchday experience, and deepen connections between our clubs and their communities.”

HSH will be led by seasoned executives Tom Glick, Chief Executive Officer, and Chris Klein, President. Glick’s industry experience includes serving as Chief Commercial and Operating Officer of Manchester City FC and President of New York City FC, Tepper Sports & Entertainment, including Charlotte FC, and Chelsea FC. Klein played 13 seasons in MLS, served as President of the LA Galaxy for 12 years, and co-chairs the LA Host Committee for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Since its inaugural season in 2022, MLS NEXT Pro has quickly become a critical part of the MLS ecosystem and the United States soccer pyramid, providing a pathway for emerging players and coaches while expanding access to professional soccer across the U.S. and Canada. To date, 255 players who have competed in MLS NEXT Pro have gone on to sign first team contracts in MLS. MLS NEXT Pro currently consists of 30 clubs: 27 MLS affiliates and three independent teams, with four additional independent teams beginning play in 2027.

“This is a special year for our sport with the FIFA World Cup 2026 taking place in North America, and this strategic partnership with KKR and HSH will help support our short- and long-term growth objectives both on and off the field,” said Ali Curtis, President, MLS NEXT Pro and EVP of MLS Sporting Development. “This investment will contribute to our league’s broader trajectory; it strengthens our ability to provide more opportunities for players, expand into new markets, and to continue building a competitive professional environment that prepares the next generation of talent for success in MLS and beyond.”

“MLS NEXT Pro plays an important role in player development, and we see a meaningful opportunity to build on that foundation by helping clubs expand into new communities and supporting a more modern, scalable operating model,” said Ted Oberwager, a Partner who leads the gaming, entertainment, media and sports verticals within KKR’s Americas Private Equity business. “We believe that combining centralized technology infrastructure, strong local execution, and disciplined investment can help clubs strengthen fan connections, build long-term value, and create future-forward sports and entertainment experiences.”

KKR has built an extensive track record in sports, with nearly $9 billion committed to the sector since 2010. Investments span the full ecosystem, from expanding access to high school sports to backing professional leagues, digital gaming, sports media, merchandising, fan engagement platforms, recreational clubs, and real estate. These investments reflect conviction in sports as a durable and growing global business. KKR is making its investment through its Ascendant Fund as part of KKR’s Americas Private Equity platform.

In partnership with MLS NEXT Pro leadership, as well as municipalities, civic leaders, and community stakeholders, HSH will pursue the development of new soccer stadiums designed to deliver best-in-class fan experiences and serve as long-term anchors for professional soccer in their communities.

“Our platform is about expanding access to the game and investing in the communities that support it,” said Glick. “We believe every city deserves a professional club it can call its own, one that inspires local pride and contributes meaningful economic impact. We welcome the opportunity to work with local leaders to develop clubs and venues that reflect the character of their markets and bring professional soccer closer to more fans across the country.”

Additional announcements are expected from the partnership in the coming months.

Andalusian Sports Advisors served as financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal advisor to KKR and HSH. Moelis & Co. LLC served as financial advisor and Proskauer Rose LLP served as legal advisor to MLS.

About MLS NEXT Pro
Launched in 2022 by Major League Soccer, MLS NEXT Pro is a professional men’s soccer league in the United States and Canada that completes the pro player pathway from MLS NEXT to MLS first teams. MLS NEXT Pro continues to grow the game through innovation and access, bringing professional soccer to new communities and creating opportunities both on and off the field. MLS NEXT Pro celebrates its fifth season in 2026 with 30 teams, 27 MLS-affiliated and three independent, Carolina Core FC, Chattanooga FC and Connecticut United FC. Additional MLS-affiliated and independent clubs will join in the years ahead, including Forest City Cleveland, Jacksonville Armada FC, AC Grand Rapids, and The Island FC. For more information about MLS NEXT Pro, visit mlsnextpro.com

About Major League Soccer
Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer – celebrating its 31st season in 2026 – features 30 clubs throughout the United States and Canada. All MLS and Leagues Cup matches can be watched on the Apple TV app on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, and game consoles, and the web at tv.apple.com, and features the most expansive and accessible lineup of programming ever for MLS fans. For more information about MLS, visit mlssoccer.com. For more information about the Apple TV app, visit apple.com/apple-tv-app.

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 Hometown Soccer Holdings
Hometown Soccer Holdings is a partnership between KKR and Major League Soccer formed to centralize and scale the commercial operations of MLS NEXT Pro. HSH works with MLS, affiliated clubs, and local partners to launch clubs in targeted markets, pursue purpose-built stadium development, and strengthen the league’s capabilities across sponsorship, ticketing, live events, and fan engagement. HSH is led by veteran sports executives Tom Glick and Chris Klein, whose careers span leadership roles at Manchester City FC, the LA Galaxy, Major League Soccer, and beyond. For more information, visit www.hometownsoccer.com.

Media Contacts

Sal Petruzzi – MLS
salvatore.petruzzi@mlssoccer.com

Sarah Jamieson – MLS NEXT Pro
sarah.jamieson@mlsnextpro.com

Brooke Rustad – KKR
media@kkr.com

Brendan Hannan – Hometown Soccer Holdings
Brendan.Hannan@skylark.llc

Source: KKR

 

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CapMan Natural Capital and S-Bank’s forest fund agree on a 6,500-hectare forest portfolio transaction

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CapMan Natural Capital and S-Bank’s forest fund agree on a 6,500-hectare forest portfolio transaction

A forest fund managed by CapMan Natural Capital, CapMan Dasos European Forest Fund IV, has acquired a forest portfolio of approximately 6,500 hectares in Finland from a forest fund managed by S-Bank. The acquired forests are located in the regions of Kainuu and North Karelia.

The acquired forest portfolio is an excellent fit for the investment strategy of CapMan Dasos European Forest Fund IV, both in terms of its location and characteristics. The fund aims to generate long-term value by actively and sustainably managing European forest assets while delivering measurable climate and biodiversity benefits.

“We would like to thank S-Bank for a smooth transaction process. We are pleased to continue the active development and value creation of a professionally managed forest portfolio,” says Sami Veijalainen, Partner at CapMan Natural Capital.

“The transaction process with CapMan Natural Capital progressed very smoothly and in a constructive spirit. For S-Bank Forest Special Investment Fund, it is important that the assets transition to a capable and responsible owner that develops forest assets professionally and with a long-term perspective. The transaction supports the fund’s investment strategy and the structured development of the overall portfolio,” says Timo Hakulinen, Fund Manager of S-Bank Forest Special Investment Fund.

This is the first investment from the CapMan Dasos European Forest Fund IV. The fund held its first close in December 2025 and continues both fundraising and investment activities.

For more information, please contact:

Sami Veijalainen, Partner, CapMan Natural Capital, +358 40 516 5794

About CapMan Natural Capital

CapMan Natural Capital is a specialist natural capital asset manager focused on sustainable forestry investments across Europe. The team acquires and actively manages forest and land assets with the objective of delivering long-term risk-adjusted returns alongside measurable environmental outcomes, including climate change mitigation and biodiversity enhancement. CapMan Natural Capital is part of CapMan Plc, formed after acquisition of Dasos Capital in 2024.

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.

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EQT makes infrastructure more accessible to individual investors across Europe – introduces new ELTIF evergreen fund

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EQT Nexus ELTIF Infrastructure - Hero 1

  • EQT launches a European Long-Term Investment Fund structure for the Nexus Infrastructure evergreen strategy – further broadening access to private markets for eligible individuals and institutions across the EU and EEA
  • EQT Nexus ELTIF Infrastructure aims to provide exposure to EQT’s global infrastructure platform, spanning digital infrastructure, energy & environmental, transportation & logistics, and social infrastructure
  • The new fund marks an important step in the evolution of EQT’s Global Wealth Solutions platform, enabling a broadened investor base and new distribution partnerships in key growth markets

ELTIF 2.0. (“ELTIF”) is a European Union legislative regime for a regulated fund structure designed to channel capital into long-term, illiquid asset classes, such as infrastructure, private equity and real estate. The ELTIF framework expands access to private markets for the non-professional investor category, increasing coverage across the EU and EEA. EQT Nexus ELTIF Infrastructure (the “Fund”) is offered at a lower minimum investment threshold than traditional private asset structures and will be available via third-party distributors and intermediaries, including private banks and wealth platforms.

EQT Nexus ELTIF Infrastructure is an extension of EQT’s existing Nexus Infrastructure evergreen strategy. The Fund can give individual investors and institutions exposure to similar deal flow and value-creation opportunities as institutional investors in EQT’s closed-ended infrastructure funds.

The Fund will invest across EQT’s platform of Value-Add, Active Core and Transition Infrastructure funds as well as the newly launched AI Infrastructure strategy. These strategies invest in essential services to society across distinct and complementary stages of company development and themes within the digital, energy & environmental, transport & logistics, and social infrastructure sectors.

EQT’s infrastructure platform has built robust infrastructure businesses for nearly 20 years, managing EUR 78[1] billion in assets across Europe, North America and Asia Pacific, supported by a team of 155 investment professionals. The Fund launches with a seed portfolio with exposure to around 50 portfolio companies aiming to provide investors with diversification from day one. Subscriptions start in May 2026.

Peter Beske Nielsen, Global Head of Wealth Solutions at EQT, said: “Infrastructure is the backbone of resilient societies – and for investors, it can offer a combination of long-term capital appreciation, resilient downside protection and an inflation hedge. The launch of EQT Nexus ELTIF Infrastructure marks an important step in the evolution of EQT’s wealth solutions platform – enabling new distribution partnerships and reaching client segments that remain underallocated to private markets.”

The launch of EQT Nexus ELTIF Infrastructure, follows the introduction of its ELTIF Private Equity equivalent in September 2025. Today, EQT’s evergreen platform includes seven evergreen solutions spanning private equity, infrastructure and real estate, available to eligible individual investors and institutions across Europe, Asia Pacific and the Americas.

Contact
EQT Press Office, press@eqtpartners.com

 

[1] As of December 2025

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About EQT

EQT is a purpose-driven global investment organization with EUR 269 billion in total assets under management (EUR 142 billion in fee-generating assets under management) as of 31 March 2026, within two business segments – Private Capital and Real Assets. EQT owns portfolio companies and assets in Europe, Asia Pacific and the Americas and supports them in achieving sustainable growth, operational excellence and market leadership.

More info: www.eqtgroup.com
Follow EQT on LinkedIn, X, YouTube and Instagram

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ARCHIMED Diagnostics, along with minority investor La Caisse, acquires Stago, a global leader in blood coagulation analysis

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  • Working with Stago management, ARCHIMED aims to expand sales and profits by building on gold-standard products in both developed and developing nations

ARCHIMED Diagnostics – the Diagnostics team of global private equity healthcare specialist ARCHIMED – has purchased alongside global investment group La Caisse (formerly CDPQ), Stago, a world leader for the analysis of blood coagulation issues (hemostasis). Stago develops and manufactures hemostasis equipment and reagents. It has unique expertise and a track record of innovation in this specialty.

Stago is held through ARCHIMED’s MED Platform II fund and was purchased from the founding Viret family by the Diagnostics team through an unspecified mix of equity and unitranche debt. Stago sells its products in 115 countries and posted revenues of €550 million in 2025. Based in Asnières-sur-Seine (greater Paris), Stago was founded in 1945 and is the only pure-play hemostasis analysis company in the world. Stago’s leadership team is taking a minority stake as part of the deal.

“In addition to financial muscle, ARCHIMED and La Caisse have the operational sophistication and discretion to help us grow at a pivotal moment in our company’s history,” says incumbent Stago CEO Jean‑Claude Piel, who retires from his post, becoming Chief of the Scientific and Technology Monitoring Committee. “ARCHIMED’s diagnostics expertise is key for accelerating the efficient rollout of a major, new generation of Stago products,” says Philippe Barroux, Stago’s CEO-elect. Barroux, a 38‑year Stago veteran, is currently CEO of operations in North America and China. “This partnership is all about reigniting innovation at Stago.”

ARCHIMED has made a total of eight diagnostics acquisitions, exiting two: Diesse, which became a pioneer in the development of cutting-edge systems for diagnosing inflammatory diseases and immune disorders in partnership with ARCHIMED; and Eurolyser, a point-of-care testing specialist, which saw profits rise more than two-fold and sales growth accelerate from the high single-digits to 25 percent annually during three years of ARCHIMED ownership.

“Our aim is to provide Stago with the resources it needs to accelerate global growth and to reinforce its leading position as a pure player with unrivalled expertise,” says ARCHIMED Managing Partner Vincent Guillaumot. “Stago has a pipeline of innovative products that should allow its revenues and profits to grow well above industry averages,” adds ARCHIMED Partner Antoine Faguer.

“Stago is a recognized leader in blood coagulation analysis, operating in a segment we know well, and serving a mission-critical role in medical diagnostics. Our investment alongside ARCHIMED reflects the value we place on partnerships and businesses with strong fundamentals,” said Martin Longchamps, Executive Vice-President and Head of Private Equity and Private Credit at La Caisse.

Working closely with Stago management, ARCHIMED will deploy its MedValue template – ARCHIMED’s levers for accelerating the growth of partnering companies via internationalization (often including bolt-on acquisitions), innovation and product range expansion.

Diagnostics is a primary investment sector for ARCHIMED, and one of the seven major sectors mapped through ARCHIMED’s MedSeg, its proprietary sector analysis tool covering 430 sub-segments of the global health industry. For the acquisition of Stago, ARCHIMED also deployed MedDiscover, a proprietary set of tools and processes permitting ARCHIMED to identify and effectively engage with leading companies operating in ARCHIMED’s prioritized sub‑sectors.

Stago is MED Platform II’s 10th investment. All of MED Platform II’s investments have been first-time leveraged buyouts for the companies acquired. MED Platform II, more than two times oversubscribed, closed on €3.5 billion in June, 2023. According to Preqin data, the fund is a top quartile performer for its vintage year as are all ARCHIMED funds. After the Stago transaction, MED Platform II is some 70 percent invested.

ABOUT ARCHIMED

www.archimed.group – With offices in Europe, North America and Asia, ARCHIMED is a leading investment firm focused exclusively on healthcare industries. Its mix of operational, medical, scientific and financial expertise allows ARCHIMED to serve as both a strategic and financial partner to healthcare businesses. Prioritized areas of focus include Animal & Environmental Health, Biopharma Products, Consumer Health, Diagnostics, Healthcare IT, Life Science Tools & Services, and MedTech. ARCHIMED helps partners internationalize, acquire, innovate and expand their products and services. ARCHIMED manages €9 billion across its various funds. Since inception, ARCHIMED has been a committed Impact investor, both directly and through its EURÊKA Foundation.

ABOUT LA CAISSE

At La Caisse, formerly CDPQ, we have invested for 60 years with a dual mandate: generate optimal long-term returns for our 48 depositors, who represent over 6 million Quebecers, and contribute to Québec’s economic development.

As a global investment group, we’re active in the major financial markets, private equity, infrastructure, real estate and private credit. As at December 31, 2025, La Caisse’s net assets totalled CAD 517 billion. For more information, visit lacaisse.com or consult our LinkedIn or Instagram pages.

La Caisse is a registered trademark of Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec that is protected in Canada and other jurisdictions and licensed for use by its subsidiaries.

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