KARTESIA MANAGEMENT

Thesis

Founded in 2013, the firm has grown into a leading European private credit manager with a pan-European presence and a team of experienced professionals. Their investment strategy focuses on the lower mid-market in Europe, targeting investment opportunities ranging from €10 million to €150 million. The firm employs a disciplined approach with a strong emphasis on downside protection, aiming to build diversified and sustainable portfolios. Kartesia offers four complementary credit strategies: Opportunistic Credit, Senior Direct Lending, Impact Debt, and Structured Credit (CLOs). A significant portion of their investments, over 70%, are proprietary and off-market, leveraging an extensive network to access leading SMEs. The firm also has a strategic partnership with Flexam, an asset-based financing specialist, enhancing their capabilities in areas like finance leases and sale-and-leasebacks, particularly in transportation and logistics. Kartesia's investment thesis includes a focus on impact transformation, offering reduced loan margins for companies achieving specific ESG metrics. As of March 2026, Kartesia manages approximately €7.5 billion in assets under management (AUM), which has grown significantly since its partnership with Candriam began, nearly tripling from €2.8 billion in 2020. The firm operates multiple credit funds, including dedicated vehicles for credit opportunities and senior debt.