Takeover: Franklin Templeton continues to focus on expansion

Franklin Templeton is expanding its alternative investment platform and acquiring a majority stake in Apera Asset Management . The pan-European private credit provider manages approximately five billion euros in assets.

With this move, the investment firm expands its direct lending capabilities in the European lower middle market segment. Following the acquisition, Franklin Templeton's global alternative credit assets will increase to $87 billion, while total assets under management in alternative investments will grow to approximately $260 billion.

Complement to the existing platform

Apera will complement Franklin Templeton's existing offering alongside Benefit Street Partners in the US and Alcentra in Europe. Founded in 2016, the firm, headquartered in London with offices in Germany, France, and Luxembourg, has been providing secured capital solutions for private equity-backed companies in Western Europe.

Apera recently closed its third fund family with a volume of EUR 2.9 billion, thus achieving its original target, according to the company.

Specialization in the lower middle class segment

Apera focuses on the lower mid-market segment, which it claims is less competitive than the broader private credit market. The company has various competencies in the pan-European lower mid-market.

Subject to customary regulatory approvals, the transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025.