Ares’ European Strategic Income Fund surpasses €2.2bn in AUM in first year

The open-ended fund, launched in 2024, provides individual investors in Europe and Asia access to Ares’ European direct lending strategy, raising capital primarily through the wealth channel.

AESIF offers a diversified portfolio of directly originated, senior secured floating-rate loans to businesses across Western Europe. As of December 31, 2024, it has invested in over 230 portfolio companies across various sectors. Designed to deliver stable yields with downside protection, the fund features lower investment minimums compared to traditional alternative investments.

Daniel Sinclair, Partner in European Direct Lending, and Andrea Fernandez, Head of Product Management and Investor Relations for European Credit and Corporate Secondaries, highlighted the strong demand for Ares’ European direct lending strategy. They emphasized the firm’s local origination network, execution experience, and portfolio management capabilities as key advantages in delivering attractive risk-adjusted returns.

Mark Serocold, Partner and EMEA Head of Wealth Management Solutions, noted that individual investors in Europe and Asia are increasingly seeking alternative investment strategies. He underscored AESIF’s potential for durable income, compelling yield generation, and flexibility within a semi-liquid format.

Since launching Ares Wealth Management Solutions (AWMS) in 2021, Ares has expanded its private markets offering, building a 150-member global team to enhance private market access and education for financial advisors and clients. The firm plans to continue expanding its wealth platform and strengthening its distribution partnerships in EMEA.

Source: Business Wire

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