H.I.G. Capital Successfully Closes $1 Billion Bayside Loan Opportunity Fund VII
H.I.G. Bayside Capital, recognized for specializing in loans that cater to distinct situations, has announced the successful closure of its latest fund, the H.I.G. Bayside Loan Opportunity Fund VII, which boasts a significant capital commitment of $1 billion. As a subsidiary of H.I.G. Capital, a global leader in alternative investments managing over $66 billion, Bayside’s mission is clear: to capitalize on unique opportunities within the European mid-market segment.
Founded in 2006, the European strategy of H.I.G. Bayside primarily targets senior secured loans positioned in stressed and special situations. The fund aims to achieve equity-like returns through a disciplined approach to portfolio construction and transaction selection, consistently delivering superior results relative to comparable credit indices.
The previous iteration, H.I.G. Bayside Loan Opportunity Fund V, garnered accolades as the 'Best Performing Debt Fund' by Private Equity Wire/Bloomberg in 2022, reflecting the effectiveness of the firm's investment strategy. Co-founders Sami Mnaymneh and Tony Tamer commented on the achievement, emphasizing H.I.G.'s status as one of the most active credit investors focused on the middle market. They highlighted the synergistic platform that H.I.G. has built across the U.S., Europe, and Latin America, which has proven beneficial in generating risk-adjusted returns across various cycles.
Commenting on the new fund's potential, Andrew Scotland and Duncan Priston, who co-lead the H.I.G. Bayside Europe Fund, expressed their eagerness for the fresh capital available for deployment in a favorable market for special credit investments. They noted that many European enterprises fueled by debt are currently facing challenges, thus creating a fertile ground for investment opportunities.
Jordan Peer Griffin, Executive Managing Director and Global Head of Capital Formation, added that the fund is designed to offer limited partners a broad range of investment opportunities in private equity, credit, and real assets within the middle market. The encouraging backing from various investors—from public and private pensions to family offices—underscores the robust interest in this segment and confidence in H.I.G.'s unique strategy. The firm has received strong support from a diverse and global investor base hailing from North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, signaling a collective belief in the fund's vision and potential.
Bayside Capital continues to focus on medium-sized companies across both primary and secondary capital market segments, striving for long-term returns. With eight offices spread across the U.S. and Europe, along with over 500 investment professionals, Bayside is well-equipped with the necessary experience, resources, and flexibility to achieve above-average risk-adjusted returns. H.I.G. Capital, operating since 1993, has made strategic investments in over 400 companies worldwide, managing a portfolio that now includes more than 100 firms with a combined revenue exceeding $53 billion. For additional information, visit the H.I.G. Capital website.
In summary, H.I.G. Bayside's closure of the $1 billion Loan Opportunity Fund VII represents a significant stride in the firm’s proactive investment strategy, capturing the prevailing opportunities within the European mid-market landscape. The successful fundraising reflects investor confidence in H.I.G.'s effective and experienced approach to navigating complex market dynamics amidst current economic challenges.