DWS Group (DWS) and BlackFin Capital Partners (BlackFin) have agreed on a long-term strategic partnership to jointly evolve the digital investment platform into a platform eco system that provides comprehensive digital investment solutions and services to distribution partners, institutional investors and retail clients. The aim is to adapt the digital investment platform even better to the opportunities offered by the platform market, which in future will undergo a rapid pace of change as a result of new technologies. In addition, both partners have agreed to transfer the digital investment platform into a joint venture with DWS maintaining a stake of 30 percent.
“Our aspiration is to deliver a best-in-class client experience and service. Digital capabilities and solutions are key for this – therefore we firmly believe in the great growth potential of the platform business. With BlackFin, we have found the right partner to help us unlocking the full potential of our digital investment platform IKS. Our joint mission is to create a true pan-European player and we look forward to working with our new partners and making IKS a strong sales channel for DWS in the long term,” said Dirk Goergen, member of the Executive Board of DWS Group and, as Head of Client Coverage Division, responsible for sales management and the global sales strategy.
Laurent Bouyoux, President and Founding Partner of BlackFin Capital Partners, added: “We share the vision of DWS to provide best in class solutions for its clients. To do this BlackFin will lean on our demonstrated history of successfully leveraging technological, operational and regulatory expertise to seamlessly execute complex carve-outs in order to create efficient stand-alone champions. For over two decades, we have played a key role in the transformation of the European financial services industry with an established track record of building and growing digital investment platforms while improving client satisfaction. Additionally, our deep relationships within the financial services sector across Europe have consistently delivered growth via international expansion. In partnering with DWS, BlackFin has cemented our commitment to the DACH region and our position as the reference private equity partner for major European financial institutions. We are thrilled to embark on this journey with such a storied organization.”
The digital investment platform IKS is the leading provider of fund platform services in Germany enabling seamless connectivity between investors, distributors and fund providers. In Europe, it ranks among the top ten. IKS covers all relevant distribution channels from B2B through B2B2C to B2C and has deep long-standing customer relationships. Its diversified business model, including the digital solutions capabilities, is a key strength. With its strong ETF and unit-linked offerings, IKS is particularly well positioned to capitalize on these growth areas.
The parties agreed to maintain confidentiality on the price of the transaction and further financial details. The transaction is still subject to the approval of the relevant authorities. Closing of the transaction is expected for the second half of 2022.
For further information please contact:
Adib Sisani
+49 69 910 61960 / adib.sisani@dws.com
Karsten Swoboda
+49 69 910 14941 / karsten.swoboda@dws.com
Dr. Kai Franzmeyer, Partner
+49 69 70795 400 / kai.franzmeyer@blackfin.com
About DWS Group
DWS Group (DWS) is one of the world’s leading asset managers with EUR 859bn of assets under management (as of 30 June 2021). Building on more than 60 years of experience, it has a reputation for excellence in Germany, Europe, the Americas and Asia. DWS is recognized by clients globally as a trusted source for integrated investment solutions, stability and innovation across a full spectrum of investment disciplines.
We offer individuals and institutions access to our strong investment capabilities across all major asset classes and solutions aligned to growth trends. Our diverse expertise in Active, Passive and Alternatives asset management – as well as our deep environmental, social and governance focus – complement each other when creating targeted solutions for our clients. Our expertise and on-the-ground-knowledge of our economists, research analysts and investment professionals are brought together in one consistent global CIO View, which guides our investment approach strategically.
DWS wants to innovate and shape the future of investing: with approximately 3,500 employees in offices all over the world, we are local while being one global team. We are investors – entrusted to build the best foundation for our clients’ future.
About BlackFin Capital Partners
Founded in 2009, BlackFin Capital Partners is an independent private equity firm led by its Partners who have worked together as senior executives and entrepreneurs in the financial industry for decades. The team has more than 35 investment professionals across offices in Paris, Brussels, Frankfurt and London. Focused on investing in financial services companies and FinTechs, BlackFin is the sector leader in Europe with €1.8bn assets under management.
For more information, visit www.blackfin.com