Ardian raises $20 billion for infrastructure in Europe

A monstrous USD 20 billion fundraising for Ardian in the service of a new platform dedicated to infrastructure investments, which will have a predominantly European focus. The initiative includes Ardian Infrastructure Fund VI, which has reached its hard cap of EUR 11.5 billion, and other co-investments. This fund, which is 90% larger than its predecessor, will continue Ardian's strategy of combining an industrial approach with investment expertise in sectors such as energy, transport and digital infrastructure.

The fundraising saw the confirmation of investors already committed to previous initiatives, as well as the interest of new subscribers globally, with the commitment of 229 parties from Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. In particular, there was a significant growth in US investors, with more than double the number and 14% of the capital raised, compared to the $1 billion commitment in the previous AIF V. There was also a positive response from Asian investors, who accounted for 32% of the capital raised, with the participation of several prominent Australian investors for the first time. Finally, the total number of investors in AIF VI doubled compared to those in AIF V, with an average 40% increase in capital commitments from those who reinvested in the new fund.

"Today more than ever, clients expect high, stable returns independent of financial market trends. This milestone confirms the success of our distinctive strategy, which we have been pursuing consistently since our inception more than 20 years ago. We have expanded into new geographic areas while maintaining a selective focus on essential, highly capitalised assets in three key sectors: energy, transport and digital infrastructure," comments Mathias Burghardt, executive vice-president, ceo of Ardian France and head of the infrastructure division.

AIF VI has already invested more than 40% of its capital in major infrastructure assets, including London Heathrow Airport, in which Ardian is the largest shareholder. In light of Ardian's expertise in the airport sector, the team, together with Finint Infrastructures, announced the signing of an agreement for the joint indirect acquisition of Venice Airport. In addition, investments have already been made in the UK-based data centre platform Verne; Attero, active in waste management and the circular economy; Akuo, active in renewable energy; and the Irish utility.

Ardian manages USD 47 billion in infrastructure assets, encompassing the European and US core infrastructure markets, as well as thematic funds dedicated to energy transition. The team has 80 investment professionals supported by a strong network of operating partners.