Bloomberg: Ares Management Targets Record-Breaking $21.9b for Direct-Lending Fund

Ares Management Corp., the Los Angeles-based private equity giant, is on the verge of finalizing a groundbreaking direct-lending fund, aiming for an unprecedented €20 billion ($21.9 billion) in capital, sources close to the matter reveal. The firm seeks to secure a substantial €15 billion from investors, with an additional leverage of around €5 billion. The fund is set to be the largest in its category, reflecting the robust growth in the private lending sector, largely propelled by major players like Ares. The imminent success underscores Ares' prominent position in shaping the future landscape of direct lending.