Amundi Private Equity Funds has launched the first investment programme in non-listed European SMEs/mid-sized businesses benefiting from at least one of the five “megatrends”: technology, demographics, globalisation, the environment and societal changes.
Amundi PEF has set a target of raising €250m from French and European investors.
The investment programme seeks to take active minority stakes in private equity and buyout capital in companies with high-quality management, a convincing history of profitability, organic or external growth targets and robust financial fundamentals.
Amundi PEF applies ESG principles in selecting target deals with an average value of €10m to €35m. The firm is looking for an internal rate of return (IRR) of 20% gross per transaction.
Stanislas Cuny, head of Direct Private Equity at Amundi PEF, said: “With our active minority investment strategy, we have access to entrepreneurial and family-owned businesses whose managers are often reluctant to open up their capital to LBO funds taking majority positions. Our positioning in solid megatrends, which drive corporate growth and performance, is an excellent opportunity for both investors and our partner companies: in fact, we have just closed our first deal, worth €136m.”
Pedro Antonio Arias, Head of Real and Alternative Assets at Amundi, added: “We benefit from strong origination capabilities and an extensive business network through our partner networks in France and Europe, giving us privileged access to SMEs and mid-sized enterprises. Thanks to this activity and to the private debt activity, Amundi has become a leading player in helping businesses meet their financing needs.”
