Aperture Investors Company Profile

Background

Aperture Investors is an alternative asset management firm specializing in credit and equity investments across various ecosystems and geographies. Founded in 2018 by Peter S. Kraus, former CEO of AllianceBernstein and Co-Head of Investment Management at Goldman Sachs, the firm aims to generate compelling returns through capacity-constrained strategies while maintaining a client-centric focus. Aperture Investors operates with a mission to align its interests with those of its clients by implementing performance-linked fee structures, ensuring that fees are competitive with passive ETFs when performance is at or below benchmarks, and applying performance-linked fees on returns exceeding benchmarks.

Key Strategic Focus

Aperture Investors concentrates on identifying and capitalizing on opportunities within the credit universe, including high-yield bonds, leveraged loans, structured products, emerging markets, and credit-themed equities. The firm's equity strategies encompass U.S. Small Cap, Global, European, International, and European Small Cap markets. By leveraging the expertise of approximately 23 investment professionals with an average of 15 years of experience, Aperture Investors aims to deliver superior investment solutions tailored to client needs.

Financials and Funding

As of September 30, 2024, Aperture Investors managed assets totaling $3.44 billion. The firm is co-owned by Peter S. Kraus and Assicurazioni Generali S.p.A., one of the world's largest insurance and asset management companies. This partnership provides Aperture Investors with the resources of a large enterprise while maintaining the agility of a boutique manager. Generali has committed long-term capital to the firm's strategies, offering meaningful stability and support for its investment initiatives.

Pipeline Development

In recent years, Aperture Investors has expanded its investment offerings by launching new strategies in structured credit and litigation finance. In January 2025, the firm appointed Vladimir Lemin as Global Head of Structured Credit to lead its newly established structured credit business. In September 2024, Aperture Investors hired Luke Darkow to spearhead its private credit litigation finance strategy. These developments reflect the firm's commitment to diversifying its investment portfolio and addressing evolving market opportunities.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Aperture Investors differentiates itself through the implementation of performance-linked fee structures designed to align the firm's incentives with client outcomes. This innovative approach ensures that management fees are competitive with passive ETFs when performance is at or below benchmarks, and applies performance-linked fees on returns exceeding benchmarks. By adopting this model, Aperture Investors emphasizes accountability and transparency in its investment management practices.

Leadership Team

Peter S. Kraus: Founder, Chairman, and CEO. With a background as former CEO of AllianceBernstein and Co-Head of Investment Management at Goldman Sachs, Kraus brings extensive experience in asset management and investment strategy.

Louis V. Molinari: Chief Marketing Officer. Appointed in February 2024, Molinari joined Aperture Investors to lead global marketing efforts, bringing a wealth of experience from his tenure at Barclays.

Vladimir Lemin: Global Head of Structured Credit. Joined the firm in January 2025 to lead the newly launched structured credit strategy, aiming to build a top-tier investment team and diversify risk exposure.

Luke Darkow: Principal and Portfolio Manager. Hired in September 2024 to develop and manage the firm's private credit litigation finance strategy, expanding Aperture Investors' investment offerings.

Leadership Changes

Recent significant appointments within the company's leadership include:

January 2025: Vladimir Lemin joined as Global Head of Structured Credit.

September 2024: Luke Darkow was appointed to lead the litigation finance strategy.

February 2024: Louis V. Molinari became Chief Marketing Officer.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The alternative asset management industry is characterized by a competitive landscape with firms striving to offer unique investment strategies and fee structures. Aperture Investors' performance-linked fee model positions it distinctively within this market, appealing to clients seeking alignment of interests and accountability.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the alternative asset management space include:

Dimensional Fund Advisors: A global investment firm offering a range of equity and fixed income strategies, emphasizing a systematic investment approach.

Ellevest: A financial services company focused on providing investment solutions tailored for women, integrating gender-specific considerations into its strategies.

Fisher Investments: An independent investment advisory firm managing portfolios for individuals and institutions, known for its personalized investment strategies.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Aperture Investors benefits from its partnership with Assicurazioni Generali S.p.A., which provides substantial resources and long-term capital commitments. This collaboration enhances the firm's stability and capacity to develop and manage diverse investment strategies.

Operational Insights

Aperture Investors' performance-linked fee structure serves as a key differentiator, aligning the firm's incentives with client outcomes and promoting transparency. This approach positions the firm competitively within the alternative asset management industry, appealing to clients seeking accountability and performance-driven investment solutions.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, Aperture Investors aims to continue expanding its investment offerings by exploring new strategies and asset classes. The firm's recent ventures into structured credit and litigation finance demonstrate its commitment to diversification and responsiveness to market dynamics. By leveraging its experienced leadership team and strategic partnerships, Aperture Investors is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities and deliver value to its clients.

Contact Information

For more information, visit Aperture Investors' official website.

Aperture Investors maintains offices in New York, London, and Paris, serving clients across the United States and Europe.