Oaktree's European control investing strategy combines traditional private equity and distress-for-control activities, investing at any level of the capital structure, and seeking equity positions that result in substantial influence, control or total ownership.
Oaktree's European footprint provides introductions to strategic partners and intermediary relationships across the continent, and enables the sharing of industry knowledge and global investment experience. The investment professionals dedicated to Europe benefit from Oaktree's high yield debt, real estate and distressed debt presence there.
"We focus on business sectors where Oaktree has prior experience and expertise," says Caleb Kramer, the strategy’s portfolio manager, "or we partner with individuals or groups that have industry expertise but lack capital or other resources."
We particularly favor cross-border investments that benefit from European integration or provide opportunity for global distribution. We seek to maximize value through the divestiture of assets of large companies, and from enhancing the strategic and operational expertise of family-owned businesses.