Apex Group adds to depositary capabilities with European acquisition

Darwin, a leading independent AIFMD depositary in mainland Europe, provides depositary services to clients based in the Netherlands and outside the EU, including hedge funds, real estate, debt and private equity funds as well as funds investing in infrastructure and renewable energy.

The addition of Darwin in the Netherlands will add €4.5bn of Assets under Depositary to the Group (as at May 31 2022), expanding the geographic scope of Apex’s independent depositary services, currently delivered through subsidiary European Depositary Bank (“EDB”) in Luxembourg, Ireland, UK and Malta. Darwin’s experienced management team will join the Group, ensuring continuity of exceptional service levels for existing and future clients.

Apex currently provides depositary services to a vast range of regulated fund types, underpinned by best-in-class technology and workflow systems. Darwin’s clients will now benefit from the simplicity and efficiency of a single provider relationship with a global partner which offers industry-leading services including custody, digital banking, super ManCo and ESG Rating & Advisory.

This is the latest in a series of industry-shaping global acquisitions for Apex including the recently announced addition of Maitland’s fund services and ManCo business. Following completion of announced acquisitions, Apex will operate from over 85 offices in 42 countries worldwide, with 10,000 employees servicing $2.75 trillion in assets across administration, depositary, custody and under management.

Peter Hughes, Founder and CEO of Apex Group comments: “The Netherlands continues to be one of the most attractive markets for fund managers to set-up and access EU markets and with this strategic acquisition, we will be able to serve the growing demand for depositary services. We look forward to welcoming Darwin and their clients to the Group, with our single-source model removing the necessity for multiple service provider relationships, delivering efficiency and flexible solutions for all operational fund requirements.”

Peter van Schaik and Frank Hand, Managing Directors at Darwin Depositary Services further comment: “We are excited to be joining Apex Group and the wide-ranging benefits this will deliver for our clients both now, and in the future. The Group shares our uncompromising focus on client experience and service levels, which when combined with their unparalleled global reach and product range presents a compelling solution for regulated funds.”

Transaction close is subject to customary conditions including regulatory approvals which are expected in Q3 2022. Terms of the transaction are undisclosed.

Simmons and Simmons and Alvarez & Marsal served as legal counsel to Apex Group. JB Law acted as legal counsel to Darwin.

About Apex Group

Apex Group Ltd., established in Bermuda in 2003, is a global financial services provider. With over 80 offices in 40 countries worldwide and nearly 10,000 employees upon the close of announced acquisitions, Apex Group delivers an expansive range of services to asset managers, financial institutions, private clients and family offices. The Group has continually improved and evolved its capabilities to offer a single-source solution through establishing the broadest range of services in the industry; including fund services, digital onboarding and bank accounts, depositary, custody, super ManCo services, corporate services including HR and Payroll and a pioneering ESG Ratings and Advisory solution. Apex Group’s purpose is to be more than just a financial services provider and is committed to driving positive change to address three core areas; the Environment and Climate Change, Women’s Empowerment and Economic Independence, Education and Social Mobility.

About Darwin Depositary Services

Darwin Depositary Services provides depositary services to Alternative Investment Funds a funds based in the Netherlands or outside the EU, including hedge funds, real estate funds, funds investing in wind parks and infrastructure, debt funds and private equity funds. Darwin Depositary Services is the only independent AIFMD depositary in mainland Europe.

https://www.darwindepositary.com/

Press contacts:

Apex Group: Antonia Powell, Head of Media Relations | Antonia.powell@apexfs.com