In a significant development, growth investor General Atlantic has successfully acquired sustainable infrastructure investor Actis, as announced in a joint statement by the firms. While the financial details of the transaction remain undisclosed, the definitive agreement is poised to establish a diversified global investment platform boasting combined assets under management (AUM) of approximately $96 billion.
The partnership between General Atlantic and Actis is strategically designed to capitalize on emerging opportunities in energy transition, digitization, and economic dynamism within growth markets. Bill Ford, Chairman and CEO of General Atlantic, emphasized the significance of addressing the global shift towards sustainability. He stated, “With the addition of Actis, we are taking a significant step forward to add a sustainable investment capability which positions General Atlantic to capture this opportunity set for our investors.”
Actis, a London-based investment firm founded in 2004, manages $12.5 billion in AUM and boasts a global presence with over 140 investment professionals across 17 offices. The firm has raised $25 billion in capital since its inception, focusing on supporting long-term, equitable growth in critical infrastructure during periods of energy transition, digital transformation, and supply chain evolution.
Under the terms of the deal, Actis will operate as General Atlantic’s sustainable infrastructure division within its global investment platform. Torbjorn Caesar, the current leader of Actis, will maintain independence over investment decisions and processes. The funds will continue to operate under the Actis brand.
General Atlantic, with a history dating back to 1980, brings over four decades of experience as an investor. The firm, managing over $77 billion in AUM, specializes in growth equity, credit, and climate solutions. It collaborates with entrepreneurs and management teams to scale innovative businesses globally. Ford highlighted the synergies created by the transaction, stating, “This transaction brings together two complementary firms and enhances our global investment platform with greater scale, broader strategies, and deeper and more local capabilities for deal sourcing and company building.”
As of September 30, 2023, General Atlantic had a presence in numerous cities worldwide, with over 220 investment professionals