German bank Commerzbank has acquired a 74.9% stake in Aquila Capital, an asset manager specializing in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure.
The remaining 25.1% of the shares will remain with the current parent company Aquila Group.
The strategic partnership aims to become a leading force for sustainable investment in Europe, with over €40 bn in assets under management.
The parties have agreed not to disclose the financial details of the transaction that is expected to close in Q2 2024.
Aquila Capital currently manages wind, solar, and hydroelectric assets, as well as green logistics projects and sustainable real estate, for global institutional investors.
Both parties remain dedicated to long-term growth, with Aquila Group retaining a key role and Aquila Capital retaining operational and investment autonomy.
Roman Rosslenbroich, CEO and co-founder of Aquila Group, commented: ‘The partnership with Commerzbank significantly expands our client network, facilitates the swift development of new, attractive investment products aimed at a net-zero economy and strengthens Aquila Group's position in the market. Together with Commerzbank, we plan to significantly enhance Aquila Capital Investmentgesellschaft's prominent role as a sustainable real asset investor and expand it internationally.’
Thomas Schaufler, member of the Board of managing directors responsible for private and small-business customers at Commerzbank, added: ‘The strategic partnership with Aquila Group and the majority stake in Aquila Capital Investmentgesellschaft are a growth accelerator for our engagement in sustainable investments. Aquila Capital Investmentgesellschaft excellently complements our expertise in Commerzbank and Commerz Real. With the transaction, we are significantly increasing the range of products in sustainable asset management for our customers and will expand our market position even faster. ‘
Hamburg-based Aquila Capital will leverage Commerzbank's vast network of 11 million clients and global reach, propelling its reach and impact. Commerzbank will benefit from Aquila Capital's expertise, expanding its portfolio of real asset investments and supporting its clean energy transition goals.
Under Commerzbank's umbrella, Aquila Capital Investmentgesellschaft will evolve into a leading sustainable investment asset manager, alongside Commerz Real, significantly driving forward the energy transition in Germany and Europe.
The experienced management and fund teams of Aquila Capital stay onboard, as will co-founder Roman Rosslenbroich.
