The private equity firms industry in the DACH region plays a vital role in financing growth and innovation. Companies involved often include private equity funds, corporate investors, and venture capitalists, focusing on acquiring stakes in businesses across various sectors, from technology to healthcare. This industry emphasizes strategic investments that foster operational improvements and expansion. In recent years, there's been enhanced interest in impact investing, prioritizing sustainability alongside financial returns. With digital transformation accelerating, the DACH private equity scene is expected to engage more deeply in tech-driven enterprises, reshaping the investment space for future growth.

This list presents a mix of corporate and private equity investors operating in the DACH region. We explore 18 investors, ranging from large institutions like Deutsche Bank to specialized firms such as responsAbility Investments. Founded between 1870 and 2017, these investors vary significantly in size, with some managing thousands of employees, while others remain compact teams. In 2024, their investment activity spanned a wide array of sectors, collectively engaging in over 90 transactions, showcasing a dynamic approach to funding and equity participation in a rapidly evolving market.

Top 18 Private Equity Firms Investors in DACH

1. Deutsche Bank

• Website: db.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
• Founded year: 1870
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 32
• LinkedIn: deutsche-bank

Deutsche Bank AG, founded in 1870 and headquartered in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, is a leading investment bank and financial services provider. With over 10,000 employees, the bank offers a comprehensive range of solutions including investment banking, corporate banking, cash management, trade finance, and securities services. Deutsche Bank serves corporate and institutional clients, helping them manage their financial assets and liquidity effectively through its digital platform, Autobahn. In recent years, Deutsche Bank has been involved in several notable transactions relevant to the private equity context. For instance, they participated in debt financing for Veritas Capital, Mirae Asset, and Capital Southwest Corporation, indicating their role in supporting private equity firms through capital raising. Additionally, their acquisition of British stockbroker Numis for £410 million demonstrates their strategic interest in expanding their investment capabilities, which could enhance their involvement in private equity activities.

2. Partners Group

• Website: partnersgroup.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 19
• LinkedIn: partners-group

Partners Group Holding AG is an investment management firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, founded in 1996. The firm specializes in private equity, private infrastructure, private real estate, and private debt, offering a range of investment solutions to institutional investors, private banks, and individual investors. With over USD 149 billion in assets under management, Partners Group is recognized for its innovative approach and commitment to sustainability. Recently, they have been involved in several notable transactions in the private equity space, including the acquisition of a minority stake in Trinity Investments, targeting an initial investment of $500 million to support growth in the hospitality sector. Additionally, they have acquired Empira, a real estate investment management firm, and invested in Citivale Group Holdings Ltd, a developer specializing in logistics and light industrial assets. These transactions highlight their active role in the private equity market and their strategy to enhance exposure to various sectors.

3. Allianz X

• Website: allianzx.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn: allianzx

Allianz X is a corporate venture capital firm based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 2016. It specializes in investing in digital growth companies within the insurtech and fintech sectors, providing both strategic support and capital to help these companies scale their operations. Allianz X has been involved in several significant transactions, particularly in the private equity space. Notably, it participated in multiple funding rounds for Wealthsimple, raising substantial amounts such as $610 million in May 2021 and $86 million in October 2020. Additionally, Allianz X has shown interest in real estate investments, acting as an anchor investor in Kailong Real Estate Investment's $575 million property fund. This diverse investment portfolio highlights Allianz X's commitment to fostering innovation and growth across various sectors, including private equity.

4. Deutsche Börse

• Website: deutsche-boerse.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Eschborn, Hesse, Germany
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: deutsche-borse

Deutsche Börse AG is a prominent financial services company based in Eschborn, Hesse, Germany, founded in 1990. It provides a wide range of solutions, including trading, clearing, and investment management services, catering to asset managers and institutional investors. The company leverages advanced technology and analytics to facilitate efficient market operations and investment strategies. In recent years, Deutsche Börse has made significant investments in various companies, showcasing its active role in the private equity landscape. Notably, it participated in the funding rounds for Illuminate Financial and Caplight Technologies, indicating its interest in innovative financial technology firms. Additionally, Deutsche Börse acquired an approximately 80% stake in Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. (ISS), a leading provider of governance and ESG data, for USD 2,275 million, further solidifying its position in the investment management sector. These transactions highlight Deutsche Börse's strategic approach to enhancing its investment portfolio and its relevance in the private equity domain.

5. Six

• Website: six-group.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 8
• LinkedIn: sixgroup

SIX is a financial services company based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2008. It operates key financial market infrastructure and provides a range of services including securities transactions, payment processing, and financial information services. As an investor, SIX has been active in various funding rounds and acquisitions, demonstrating its engagement in the private equity space. Notable transactions include leading a €5 million Series A funding round for Fundcraft through SIX FinTech Ventures, acquiring full ownership of Swiss Fund Data from the Asset Management Association Switzerland, and participating in seed funding for Obligate. These activities highlight SIX's role in facilitating investments that align with private equity principles, despite its primary focus on financial services.

6. responsAbility Investments AG

• Website: responsability.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 9
• LinkedIn: responsability-investments

ResponsAbility Investments AG is an impact investment firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2003. The firm specializes in managing investments in emerging markets, focusing on areas such as financial inclusion, climate finance, and sustainable food production. ResponsAbility aims to generate positive societal and environmental impacts alongside financial returns, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises in developing countries. In 2024, they participated in a significant debt financing round for BDMG, raising $220 million. They have also been involved in venture funding, such as their participation in a $10 million round for Electronica Finance in 2019. Notably, responsAbility has invested in Samunnati, contributing to both Series C and Series D funding rounds, which totaled over $30 million. Their investment in U Gro Capital, which focused on impact-driven debt capital, further illustrates their commitment to supporting businesses that align with their mission. Overall, responsAbility Investments AG is a dynamic player in the private equity landscape, particularly in the impact investment sector.

7. Axel Springer

• Website: axelspringer.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Founded year: 1946
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: axel-springer-se

Axel Springer SE is a prominent media company based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 1946. It specializes in publishing news and digital media, operating a diverse portfolio of brands, including BILD and Business Insider. The company is dedicated to independent journalism and leveraging technology to enhance its media offerings. As an investor, Axel Springer has been involved in several significant transactions that reflect its strategic approach to growth. Notably, it acquired Protocol Media in August 2021, aiming to expand its digital media presence. In 2007, it acquired a 50.1% stake in wallstreet:online AG and a 75.1% interest in wallstreet:online capital AG, further enhancing its digital financial information services. Additionally, Axel Springer participated in funding rounds for startups like Homebot, showcasing its interest in early-stage investments. These activities highlight Axel Springer's role as an active investor in the media and technology sectors, aligning with private equity investment strategies.

8. DWS Group

• Website: dws.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
• Founded year: 1956
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn: dws-group-com

DWS Group is a prominent asset management company based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, founded in 1956. The firm provides a wide range of investment solutions, including Xtrackers ETFs, to both individual and institutional clients. DWS Group focuses on portfolio management and investment advice, helping clients navigate the complexities of financial markets. In recent years, DWS has engaged in several notable transactions that reflect its active role in the investment landscape. For instance, it has entered into a binding agreement to acquire a 15% equity stake in Neo Mena Technologies Ltd, a financial technology company, which aims to enhance digital asset management services in the MENA region. Additionally, DWS is in talks to acquire a stake in Deutsche Digital Assets, a move that would bolster its presence in the digital currency ecosystem. These transactions, along with investments in companies like Arabesque AI and ESG Book, demonstrate DWS Group's strategic approach to investing in innovative sectors, aligning with the characteristics of private equity investments.

9. BlueOrchard Finance Ltd

• Website: blueorchard.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 15
• LinkedIn: blueorchard-finance-ltd

BlueOrchard Finance Ltd is an investment management firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2001. The firm specializes in impact investing, offering a range of investment products designed to generate social and environmental impact alongside financial returns. Their clientele includes institutional investors and private clients who seek to align their investments with their values. BlueOrchard operates globally, with a focus on emerging and frontier markets. In 2024, they were involved in several significant transactions, primarily in debt financing, including a $314.7 million raise for Access Bank and a $160 million raise for Produbanco. These transactions highlight their active role in the financial sector, further supporting their relevance in the private equity context.

10. Allianz

• Website: allianz.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Founded year: 1890
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn: allianz

Allianz is a leading insurance company based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1890. It provides a wide range of insurance products and investment management services aimed at risk management and asset protection for individuals and businesses. With a global presence, Allianz focuses on creating long-term value for stakeholders through innovative solutions. In recent years, Allianz has been active in the investment landscape, participating in various funding rounds. Notably, they led a £40 million Series B funding round for Moneyfarm, a prominent online wealth manager, showcasing their interest in the fintech sector. Additionally, Allianz has engaged in seed funding, as seen with their investment in dili, which raised $3.6 million in early 2024. Their acquisition of the Upsilon building in Bordeaux further illustrates their strategy of diversifying investments, including real estate, which complements their core insurance business. Overall, Allianz's investment activities reflect a commitment to growth and innovation, aligning with the characteristics of private equity investments.

11. Storm Global

• Website: stormglobal.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: samvc

Storm Global is a corporate venture capital and private equity firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2017. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage startups, particularly in emerging technologies and geographies. Storm Global provides not only capital but also expertise to help these businesses grow and succeed, primarily targeting clients in the technology sector. Notable transactions include their investment in LemonRocks, a Turkish startup that secured $750,000 for global expansion, and their participation in seed rounds for companies like Stack Wealth and Rain. Additionally, they have been involved in secondary market transactions with established firms like Betterment and Robinhood, showcasing their diverse investment strategy within the private equity landscape.

12. Novartis

• Website: novartis.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Basel, Basel, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn: novartis

Novartis AG is a leading pharmaceutical company based in Basel, Switzerland, founded in 1996. The company specializes in developing and manufacturing innovative medicines aimed at addressing serious diseases across various therapeutic areas. Novartis emphasizes research and development to improve patient outcomes and has been actively involved in strategic acquisitions to enhance its portfolio. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Gyroscope Therapeutics for $800 million, aimed at advancing gene therapy for eye diseases, and the $9.7 billion acquisition of The Medicines Company, which reflects its strategy to strengthen its pharmaceutical offerings. Additionally, Novartis has acquired Kedalion Therapeutics and Amblyotech, focusing on enhancing patient experiences and developing digital treatments. These investments highlight Novartis's proactive approach in the healthcare sector, akin to private equity investment strategies.

13. blueworld.group

• Website: blueworld.group
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: blueworldgroup

blueworld.group is an investment firm based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, founded in 2014. The firm specializes in capital investment and business development for growth companies, providing consulting services to help businesses innovate and achieve sustainable growth. Their clientele primarily consists of ambitious growth companies and medium-sized enterprises seeking financial support and strategic guidance. Notably, blueworld.group has been involved in several significant transactions, including a private equity round for Haus der Bäcker, which underscores their active role in the private equity space. They also participated in seed rounds for portagon and GlassDollar, as well as a Series A investment in MYNE Homes, demonstrating their diverse investment strategy across different stages of company growth.

14. GAM Investments

• Website: gam.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: gam-investments

GAM Investments is an asset management firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, specializing in investment management and wealth management services. Founded in 1983, the firm manages CHF 19 billion in assets and serves a diverse clientele, including institutions and private investors across 14 countries. GAM has been involved in notable transactions that reflect its strategic approach to investment. For instance, in June 2016, GAM acquired UK-based Cantab Capital Partners for $217 million, which was aimed at establishing a new systematic products platform. Additionally, GAM completed the acquisition of Arkos Capital in August 2012, further enhancing its investment capabilities. These transactions highlight GAM's active role in the investment landscape, particularly in areas that overlap with private equity.

15. Vaudoise Assurances

• Website: vaudoise.ch
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1895
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: vaudoise-assurances

Vaudoise Assurances is a corporate investor based in Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland, founded in 1895. As an insurance company, it offers a wide range of insurance products and financial services to individuals and businesses, including car insurance, home insurance, and business liability coverage. In recent years, Vaudoise Assurances has expanded its investment activities through its subsidiary, Vaudoise Asset Management. Notably, they acquired a 20% stake in SEG Suisse Estate Group SA in December 2021, aiming to strengthen their position in managing third-party real estate assets. In June 2022, they participated in a CHF 10 million Series A financing round for Foxstone, an online real estate investment platform, indicating their interest in innovative investment opportunities. Furthermore, in April 2024, they fully acquired Prevanto, a consulting firm for pension institutions, enhancing their service offerings in the pension sector. These transactions reflect Vaudoise Assurances' strategic approach to investing in sectors that complement their core business and demonstrate their active role in the investment landscape.

16. Blue Earth Capital AG

• Website: blueearth.capital
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 11
• LinkedIn: pg-impact-investments-ag

Blue Earth Capital AG is an impact investment firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in addressing environmental and social challenges through investments in private equity, private credit, and partnerships. They cater to institutional investors and organizations aiming for market-rate financial returns while making a measurable impact. In 2024, Blue Earth Capital has already made 11 investments, demonstrating their active role in the investment landscape. Notable transactions include a $10 million commitment to Lombard Asia V, which targets investments in Southeast Asia, and a follow-up investment in Varthana, an education-focused fintech startup, where they contributed $14 million to support the expansion of financial services to affordable private schools in India. These transactions highlight their commitment to sustainable change and their strategic focus on impactful investments.

17. Edmond de Rothschild

• Website: edmond-de-rothschild.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1953
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: edmond-de-rothschild

The Edmond de Rothschild Group is a prominent financial institution based in Geneva, Switzerland, specializing in private banking and asset management. Founded in 1953, the group offers a diverse range of investment solutions and philanthropic engagement, catering to institutional investors, private banks, and wealth managers. The firm emphasizes a long-term vision and responsible investment practices, aiming to create a positive societal impact through its financial activities. Notably, Edmond de Rothschild has been involved in significant transactions in the private equity space, including the acquisition of a 42.5% stake in the UK family office Hottinger Group, which aims to enhance their wealth operations in the UK. Additionally, they participated in a consortium led by Carlyle Group to acquire Duff & Phelps for approximately $665.5 million, showcasing their active role in private equity investments. Furthermore, their investment in Genkyotex through post-IPO equity highlights their diverse investment strategy, which includes private equity.

18. C3 Venture Capital

• Website: c3venture.capital
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
• Founded year: 2021
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn:

C3 Venture Capital is a private equity firm based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, founded in 2021. The firm specializes in managing early-stage funds that invest in technology companies globally, with a particular emphasis on accelerating the growth and adoption of blockchain technology. C3 Venture Capital has been involved in notable transactions, including leading a CHF 15 million Series A funding round for Stableton Financial AG, alongside other investors, to support the company's expansion and technological development. Additionally, they participated in the Series A funding rounds for Cashlink, raising over $7.6 million in June 2023, and previously in a seed round in November 2021. Their recent investment in Wyden, which raised $16.9 million in a Series B round in November 2024, further illustrates their active role in the private equity sector, particularly in technology-driven startups.

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