Latham & Watkins advises Ardian in its acquisition of Finaxy

Ardian, a world-leading private investment house, has acquired a majority stake in Finaxy, a French multi-specialist B2B and B2C insurance broker, from Equistone Partners Europe, a leading European mid-market private equity firm.

Founded in 2009 under the leadership of Erick Berville, Finaxy has become a top 10 insurance broker in France following Equistone’s acquisition of a majority stake in the Group in 2014. With a strategic positioning focused on B2C niches and specific B2B business expertise, the Group has successfully leveraged its know-how to build a third offering dedicated to insurers and bank insurers. Since its inception, the Group has delivered strong organic growth and an active buy-and-build strategy, with 27 acquisitions in France, two of which took place in 2020.

In the current challenging market environment, Ardian Expansion has remained focused on growing companies both organically and through build-ups. With the support of Ardian, Finaxy plans to accelerate its buy-and-build strategy and strengthen its leading multi-specialist positioning.

Latham & Watkins advises Ardian in the transaction with a Paris team led by partner Olivier du Mottay and Bénédicte Large Bremond, counsel, assisted by Alexandre Magnier on corporate aspects. Partner Michel Houdayer assisted by Aurélie Buchinet advise on financing aspects.