Religare Enterprises Limited (REL) a leading diversified Indian Financial services group and Invesco Ltd., a leading independent global investment management firm, announced Thursday (September 27) that Invesco has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a 49% interest in Religare Asset Management Company (RAMC) Limited. RAMC, the asset management arm of REL, is among the top fifteen asset management companies in India, with combined (onshore and offshore advisory) assets under management of over US$2.6 billion (as of August 31) and a presence in 53 cities across India. Invesco currently has a presence in India (Mumbai) through its affiliate WL Ross & Co. It also operates an enterprise center in Hyderabad, first opened in 2006, employing more than 600 staff across a range of global support functions including information technology, investment operations, finance, compliance and human resources.
“This addition will enhance Invesco’s presence in an important and growing market, while providing Religare’s clients access to our broad range of investment solutions,” said Martin L. Flanagan, President and CEO of Invesco. “Our agreement with Religare will expand the comprehensive range of investment capabilities Invesco provides to our retail and institutional clients around the world, and further position both firms for long-term success.”
RAMC which began operations in end 2008 has recorded almost a four-fold increase in its combined assets under management in the last 4 years. It has also established its portfolio management services (PMS) and offshore advisory platforms in the last two years and achieved financial profitability in its third full year of operations (year ending March).
“We are very pleased to bring a global asset manager of Invesco’s repute to India as a partner in our asset management business. This investment is indeed a validation of Religare’s belief in the long-term growth potential of the Indian financial services industry. Religare’s asset management business has consistently focused on developing its investment capabilities through a well-defined, proprietary investment process both in equity and fixed income. With a good three-year performance track record and solid revenue growth, we believe that both our retail and offshore businesses would be propelled to the next level of their growth journey,” said Shachindra Nath, Group CEO of REL.
The joint venture, Religare Invesco Asset Management Company, will be headed by Saurabh Nanavati (CEO of RAMC) along with the existing management team. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals. J.P. Morgan acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Religare Enterprises Limited on this transaction.
