On June 4, 2025, Franklin Templeton, a leading U.S.-based asset management firm, announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Apera Asset Management, a European private credit firm managing over €5 billion. This strategic move aims to bolster Franklin Templeton’s global alternatives platform and expand its direct lending capabilities across Europe’s lower-middle market.
About Franklin Templeton
Franklin Templeton is a global investment management organization headquartered in San Mateo, California. With approximately $1.5 trillion in assets under management, the firm offers a wide range of investment solutions, including mutual funds, ETFs, and alternative investments. Franklin Templeton has been actively expanding its presence in alternative assets, having previously acquired Benefit Street Partners and Alcentra to enhance its alternative credit offerings.
About Apera Asset Management
Founded in 2016, Apera Asset Management is a London-based private credit firm specializing in providing senior secured private capital solutions to private equity-backed companies across Western Europe. The firm manages over €5 billion in assets and has additional offices in Germany, France, and Luxembourg. Apera focuses on the lower-middle market segment, offering tailored financing solutions to support growth and expansion initiatives of its portfolio companies.
Strategic Implications of the Acquisition
The acquisition of Apera Asset Management is expected to significantly enhance Franklin Templeton’s alternative credit capabilities in Europe. Post-acquisition, Franklin Templeton’s global alternative credit assets will increase to $87 billion. This move aligns with the firm’s strategy to diversify its investment offerings and strengthen its position in the growing private credit market.
Jenny Johnson, CEO of Franklin Templeton, stated, “The acquisition of Apera reflects our continued commitment to building a world-class global alternatives platform.”
Industry Context
The acquisition comes amid a broader trend of asset managers increasing their exposure to private markets. Firms like M&G, BlackRock, Amundi, and Janus Henderson have also pursued acquisitions and partnerships to expand their private credit and alternative investment capabilities. This shift is driven by the search for higher yields and diversification opportunities in a low-interest-rate environment.
The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.