European Firm Permira: A New Player in the US CLO Boom

Permira, a European buyout firm, is making waves in the United States as it debuts its first deal in the $1 trillion collateralized loan obligation (CLO) market. With issuance booming, Permira's entry signals a significant development in the market.

Permira's $430.6 million deal, arranged by JPMorgan Chase & Co., marks the firm's effort to expand its footprint in the US through CLO vehicles. As the largest buyers of leveraged loans, CLOs repackage debt into securities of varying risk and size, making them an attractive investment option.

Permira's expertise in European CLOs has led to its success in the region, with a focus on highly diversified and resilient portfolios. This approach has attracted investors seeking exposure to sub-investment-grade credits while minimizing risks.

As Permira enters the US CLO market, it faces unique challenges and opportunities. The US market is five times larger than Europe's, with more diversified sectoral exposures and a larger number of loans per portfolio. Permira's active management style and ESG integration could help it differentiate itself from established US managers.

Permira's entry could influence pricing and competition among existing CLO managers, as increased competition may drive better portfolio management and ESG integration. The firm's debut deal could attract investors seeking diversified, high-quality CLOs, reshaping the demand landscape and potentially impacting pricing dynamics.



Permira's entry into the US CLO market is a testament to the growth and attractiveness of the market. As regulatory changes have facilitated issuance, the market has seen a boom in activity. Permira's active management style and ESG integration position it well to capitalize on this growth and attract investors seeking stability, predictability, and consistent growth.

With a focus on large, liquid credits and robust risk management, Permira's CLOs offer a compelling investment opportunity. As the firm enters the US market, it could drive competition and innovation, benefiting investors through enhanced product offerings and pricing efficiency.