Apollo (NYSE: APO) has launched European Credit Company (ECC), a platform focused on European performing credit, including corporate and asset-backed lending. The company begins operations with more than €10 billion in lending capacity.
ECC aims to meet Europe’s growing financing needs, driven in part by the region’s industrial renaissance. The platform will provide flexible financing solutions to large and mid-sized businesses, sponsors, and real asset owners, including companies in infrastructure and real estate.
ECC CEO Giacomo Petrobelli said, “The formation of ECC is driven by a generational opportunity to mobilise global pools of capital to finance Europe’s long-term growth agenda. We aim to build ECC into a premier pan-European credit platform, focused exclusively on the region, with deep local relationships, differentiated sourcing and flexible solutions that span all credit types. Having spent my whole career in European financial services, I am thrilled to now lead ECC, building a new franchise with institutional support from Apollo and the wider investor group.”
Apollo President Jim Zelter said, “The Global Industrial Renaissance is creating tremendous financing needs around the world that are acutely felt in Europe, whether it’s energy transition and transmission, defense, or digital and traditional infrastructure. With ECC, we are pleased to extend our toolbox in Europe through a dedicated platform and localised approach, working in harmony with the larger Apollo franchise and alongside other leading global financial institutions.”
The company will source lending opportunities through its own origination activities, strategic partnerships with European financial institutions, and access to Apollo’s existing European credit platform.
ECC is backed by long-term capital investments led by Apollo funds and affiliates. Other investors include Abu Dhabi Investment Council (ADIC), Athora, Norinchukin Bank, Standard Chartered, and Aranda Principal Strategies.
Giacomo Petrobelli will serve as Chief Executive Officer, while Christian Meissner has been appointed Chairman.
ECC currently operates in Frankfurt, Jersey, London, Luxembourg City, and Milan. The company plans to expand into additional European markets in the coming quarters as it develops its role as a long-term financing partner across the region.
