#London #United Kingdom #DunPort #Vertis #Henry Costa

Vertis Capital Partners and DunPort Capital Management Join Forces

Vertis Capital Partners (Vertis), a prominent UK-based alternative investment firm, has announced a significant partnership with DunPort Capital Management (DunPort), a leading player in the private credit market. This collaboration, revealed on May 27, 2025, is set to bolster the efforts of DunPort as it aims to expand its private credit operations across Europe.

Strategic Partnership Overview

Under this new agreement, Vertis will initially acquire a minority stake in DunPort. The partnership is designed to enhance DunPort's capabilities as a premier lender to lower mid-market companies across the continent. DunPort has made impressive strides since its establishment in 2017, deploying over €1.3 billion to 68 borrowers in its key markets. This investment aligns with DunPort's ongoing fundraising efforts for its fourth private credit fund, Willow Corporate Credit DAC, which aims to amass up to €1 billion.

Collaborating for Growth

This partnership goes beyond mere investment; it brings together the resources and expertise of two dynamic firms. DunPort intends to work closely with Vertis and its affiliate, Henry Costa Partners, which specializes in providing tailored solutions for institutional fundraising. By doing so, they plan to attract capital from insurance companies and other long-term investors to benefit the real economy.

Integral figures in this partnership include Dermot Browne, the former CEO of Aviva Ireland, who will join DunPort's Board as an Independent Non-Executive Director. Additionally, Ralf Ackermann, co-founder of Vertis, will participate in DunPort’s Investment Committee, showcasing the strategic alignment of leadership and experience between the two firms. Henrik Matsen, founder of Henry Costa Partners, will also join DunPort's Board of Directors, enriching the governance and strategic oversight as DunPort embarks on this new growth trajectory.

Leadership Perspectives

Ralf Ackermann expressed enthusiasm for the investment, stating, “DunPort has built an outstanding franchise with rigorous and disciplined credit selection focusing on downside protection. Our investment reflects Vertis' strategy to back high-quality platforms across Europe.” Meanwhile, Pat Walsh, an Executive Director at DunPort, emphasized the importance of this partnership, highlighting the advantages that Vertis' institutional relationships would bring.

Ross Morrow, another Executive Director at DunPort, commented on the growth opportunities available, noting, “Through our partnership with Vertis and Henry Costa, we are well-positioned to accelerate DunPort's growth across key European markets.” He underscored their commitment to maintaining the disciplined investment approach that has contributed to DunPort's past success, while also seizing the chance to target larger and more complex transactions in the lower mid-market sector.

Conclusion

The financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed; however, the collaboration marks a critical milestone for DunPort as it seeks to enhance its market presence in Europe. With the support from Vertis and the strategic expertise of Henry Costa Partners, DunPort is poised for significant growth, which could bring about a transformative impact on the European private credit landscape.

With this strategic alliance, both DunPort and Vertis aim to create pathways for sustainable capital flow within the European economy, thereby establishing a solid foundation for enduring success in the private credit sector.