Investcorp's $100B AUM Growth Strategies and Investments

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Investcorp has achieved impressive growth in its $100B AUM, driven by a focus on private equity and real estate investments.

The company's commitment to these asset classes has yielded strong returns, with private equity investments returning 15% in 2020.

Investcorp's investment approach emphasizes partnering with experienced managers and investing in sectors with growth potential.

This strategy has allowed the company to tap into emerging markets and capitalize on trends in areas like technology and healthcare.

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Investcorp Overview

Investcorp has a rich history that spans over four decades. The company was co-founded in 1982 by Nemir Kirdar, Elias Hallak, Savio Tung, Mike Merritt, and Cem Cesmig.

The company made significant milestones in its early years, including acquiring Tiffany & Co in 1984 and floating in 1987. Maurizio Gucci sold almost 47.8% of Gucci to Investcorp in 1988, with the remaining 50% held by him until 1993.

Investcorp diversified its business in 1997 by entering the hedge funds market. This marked a significant shift in the company's focus, which was now on raising funds, institutional capital, and diversifying its strategies further.

History

Credit: youtube.com, INVESTCORP BANK B.S.C. Company Profile and Tech Intelligence Report, 2018

Investcorp was co-founded in 1982 by a group of entrepreneurs, including Nemir Kirdar and Elias Hallak.

The company made its first major acquisition in 1984, purchasing the iconic luxury brand Tiffany & Co.

In 1987, Investcorp floated on the market, marking a significant milestone in its growth.

Maurizio Gucci sold almost 47.8% of Gucci to Investcorp in 1988, but retained the remaining 50% until 1993.

Investcorp diversified its business in 1997 by entering the hedge funds market.

Kirdar stepped down as CEO and executive chairman in 2015, making way for Mohammad Alardhi to take the reins.

Investcorp made several strategic acquisitions between 2016 and 2019, expanding its presence in China's tech and food sectors.

The company also pushed into the US market in 2019, acquiring Mercury Capital, which unfortunately ceased operations in late 2024 due to the challenging capital raising environment.

Investcorp voluntarily surrendered its wholesale banking license in 2019, ending its status as a wholesale bank in Bahrain.

After being listed on the Bahrain Bourse for 40 years, Investcorp delisted itself in 2021 due to low trading volumes.

Insurance

A stunning aerial capture of Dubai's modern business district with prominent skyscrapers.
Credit: pexels.com, A stunning aerial capture of Dubai's modern business district with prominent skyscrapers.

Investcorp is a company that offers a range of financial services, including insurance solutions. In October 2021, they launched the Investcorp Insurance Solutions platform, which provides investment management services to meet the unique needs of insurers.

Their insurance platform is designed to help insurers manage their investments effectively. This is a key aspect of their business, as it allows them to provide better services to their clients.

One notable aspect of their insurance platform is its focus on providing investment management services. This is a unique feature that sets them apart from other companies in the industry.

Investcorp's insurance platform is a significant part of their business. It demonstrates their commitment to providing comprehensive financial services to their clients.

Their insurance platform is designed to be flexible and adaptable to the changing needs of insurers. This is a key advantage for their clients, as it allows them to adjust their investment strategies as needed.

Inside $100B AUM Growth Plans

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Credit: pexels.com, Contemporary buildings with glass walls located on street in financial district on embankment near calm Thames river in modern city

Investcorp has big plans for growth, aiming to scale its existing businesses to reach new heights. The Gulf region's biggest private equity firm is looking to expand its operations.

Rishi Kapoor, the vice-chairman and CIO, is at the helm of these growth plans. With a wealth of experience, Kapoor is well-equipped to lead Investcorp's expansion efforts.

Investcorp's growth plans are ambitious, with a target of reaching a $100bn AUM, a significant milestone for the firm.

Investment Strategies

Investcorp has a diverse investment strategy, with a focus on private equity. They target mid-size companies in North America, Western Europe, and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, including Turkey.

Their portfolio includes over 175 investments across various sectors. Investcorp has a history of acquiring and floating companies, such as Tiffany & Co. in 1984, which was floated in 1987, and Gucci from 1989 to 1993, which was floated in 1996.

Investcorp also invests in technology lower mid-cap companies through Investcorp Technology Partners. Some notable investments in this sector include Ageras, a Denmark-based online marketplace for professional services acquired in 2017, and Avira, a Germany-based cybersecurity company acquired in 2020 and sold to NortonLifeLock in 2021.

Here are some of the key sectors and regions where Investcorp has invested:

Investcorp

Credit: youtube.com, Investcorp's European Investment Strategy with Julie Yang

Investcorp is a global investment firm with a long history of making savvy investments. Since 1996, they've acquired over 1,000 properties worth approximately $23 billion, solidifying their position as one of the top-10 largest cross-border buyers and sellers of US real estate.

Their real estate division is based in New York and London, where they source and perform due diligence on properties and commercial mortgage debt positions. They then arrange financing and acquisitions of US and European properties, often aggregating these investments into multi-portfolio deals for their clients.

Investcorp has a diverse portfolio, with investments in various sectors, including real estate, private equity, and technology. They've made over 175 investments, including notable deals like Tiffany & Co., Gucci, and Leica Geosystems.

Here are some of their notable private equity investments:

Hedge Funds

Investcorp's hedge fund business was established in 1996 and grew to a value of approximately $3.5 billion in capital under management.

Credit: youtube.com, A $16B hedge fund CIO gives an easy explanation of quantitative trading

The hedge fund business provides institutional investors with access to its emerging manager program, which invests with and seeds early-stage managers who have been found to outperform larger hedge funds on a risk-adjusted basis.

This emerging manager program is a key component of Investcorp's hedge fund business, offering a unique opportunity for investors to tap into the potential of early-stage managers.

In 2020, Investcorp merged its hedge fund business with Tages Group, a European alternative asset management firm, creating a 50/50 joint venture that has expanded its reach and capabilities.

Credit Management

Credit management is a key aspect of any investment strategy, and one notable player in this space is Investcorp Credit Management. They have assets under management of over $22 billion, a significant figure that highlights their expertise in credit management.

Based in London, New York, and Singapore, Investcorp Credit Management has a global presence that allows them to tap into diverse markets. This geographical spread enables them to manage funds that invest primarily in senior secured corporate debt issued by mid and large-cap corporates in Western Europe and the US.

Launch of Climate Solutions Investment Platform

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The launch of the Climate Solutions Investment Platform is a game-changer for investors looking to make a positive impact on the environment. This platform allows investors to support projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development.

The platform focuses on investing in projects that have a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions, such as renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. These types of projects have been shown to be highly effective in reducing emissions.

One of the key features of the platform is its ability to provide investors with a clear understanding of the environmental impact of their investments. This is achieved through a robust monitoring and reporting system that tracks the project's progress and emissions reductions.

Investors can choose from a range of investment options, each with its own unique environmental benefits and risk profile. For example, investing in a solar panel project can provide a steady stream of income while also reducing carbon emissions.

The platform's investment options are carefully selected to ensure that they meet the highest environmental standards. This includes conducting thorough due diligence and impact assessments on each project before it is listed on the platform.

Leadership and Partnerships

Credit: youtube.com, Investcorp’s Strategic Capital Group Partnership with DiligentIQ

Investcorp has a strong focus on leadership and partnerships, which has been instrumental in driving its success. The company's leadership team has a proven track record of making strategic investments and driving growth.

With a global presence and a diverse portfolio, Investcorp is well-positioned to partner with other organizations and individuals to achieve common goals. Its partnerships have helped the company expand into new markets and industries.

Investcorp's leadership team has a deep understanding of the markets and industries in which it operates, which enables the company to make informed investment decisions and build strong partnerships.

Co-CEO Appointed to Shake Up Leadership

Hazem Ben-Gacem, a three-decade veteran of the firm, will leave his role in November.

Investcorp, the Gulf's biggest private equity firm, is reorganizing its internal units.

This change in leadership structure is a significant move for the company, as it appoints a co-CEO to shake things up.

The new co-CEO will likely bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table, helping the company navigate new challenges and opportunities.

Hazem Ben-Gacem's departure marks the end of an era, but it also creates space for new talent and leadership to emerge.

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Wafra Buys Stake in MML Capital

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Credit: pexels.com, Stunning night view of Bahrain World Trade Center with clear water reflections and modern skyline.

Wafra and Investcorp are taking equal stakes in MML Capital, a mid-market-focused investment firm.

This partnership is a result of a Houlihan Lokey-advised transaction, demonstrating the importance of strategic partnerships in business growth.

MML Capital is UK-headquartered, highlighting the global reach and opportunities for investment firms.

The acquisition of a stake by Wafra and Investcorp will likely bring new expertise and resources to MML Capital.

Fund Closures

Investcorp has closed several funds in recent years. Investcorp closes North America fund on €1.2bn, targeting mid-market buyouts in the TMT and business services sectors.

The company has also closed a $570M fund for cybersecurity and fintech, exceeding its $500M target. This fund will focus on software, data/analytics, cybersecurity, and fintech startups.

Investcorp manages a significant amount of assets, with $52 billion under its management. It has 14 offices across the US, Europe, GCC, and Asia, including India, China, Japan, and Singapore.

The company has a proven track record of success, with its previous $400 million fund driving the successes of softgarden, Avira, Ageras, and Impero.

Tokenisation and Democratisation

Credit: youtube.com, Investcorp's Technology Investment Strategy with Gilbert Kamieniecky

Tokenisation and Democratisation is a concept that's gaining traction in the investment world. Investcorp has partnered with Securitize to capitalise on a market opportunity estimated at about $400bn.

This partnership is a significant move towards democratising investment, making it more accessible to a wider range of people. The estimated market opportunity is a staggering $400 billion, indicating the vast potential for growth and innovation in this space.

Investcorp's collaboration with Securitize is a key example of how tokenisation can bring about greater democratisation in the investment sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Investcorp still own Gucci?

No, Investcorp is no longer involved in Gucci ownership, having exited its position entirely after Gucci went public.

How much did Investcorp make on Gucci?

Investcorp made $2 billion on its $800 million Gucci investment. This return on investment far exceeded expectations, highlighting the company's savvy business move.

How much is Investcorp worth?

As of January 2023, Investcorp's total assets under management reached $50 billion. This significant milestone reflects the company's global reach and financial strength.

Elena Feeney-Jacobs

Junior Writer

Elena Feeney-Jacobs is a seasoned writer with a deep interest in the Australian real estate market. Her insightful articles have shed light on the operations of major real estate companies and investment trusts, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the industry. She has a particular focus on companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange and those based in Sydney, offering valuable insights into the local and national economies.

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