Vauban Infra Fibre (VIF) has acquired stakes in broadband operators in low-density areas of France from its co-shareholder Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations (CDC).
The French digital infrastructure platform has invested an undisclosed to acquire Project Chrysalide, which covers 19 fibre-to-the-home (FttH) networks and will be phased over 2024 and 2025.
In September, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund GIC acquired a minority stake in VIF through a capital increase alongside its existing shareholders, which include funds managed by Vauban Infrastructure Partners and Crédit Agricole Assurances. Vauban-managed investment funds remain the majority stakeholders in VIF.
VIF said GIC’s investment provides additional capital to fund future digital infrastructure investments and support long-term growth.
VIF said it also expects to announce the closing of a new digital infrastructure transaction that will strengthen its position in the French market and diversify its digital infrastructure base.
Gwenola Chambon and Mounir Corm, founding partners of Vauban Infrastructure Partners, said: “Since 2009, we have significantly expanded our digital investments by building on the recognised expertise of our teams and our close relationships with all the players in the sector.
“This acquisition, which consolidates VIF’s position as the first independent FttH platform in France, is fully in line with Vauban’s strategic commitment to continue its involvement as a long-term partner with all stakeholders to develop critical infrastructure within the territories.”
To read the latest IPE Real Assets magazine click here.
