Overview of the Acquisition#
Lazard Inc., a global financial advisory and asset management firm, has announced that it will acquire Campbell Lutyens, a private markets advisor. This deal is valued at approximately $575 million and will be paid in two parts: at closing and two years later. Additionally, there is potential for up to $85 million more based on performance metrics over several years.
Formation of Lazard CL#
The merger will create a new entity called Lazard CL, which will serve as Lazard's third global business. Holcombe Green, Lazard’s Global Head of Private Capital Advisory, and Gordon Bajnai, the current CEO of Campbell Lutyens, will lead this new unit as Co-CEOs. The combined team will consist of over 280 advisory professionals across 18 global offices.
Financial Impact and Future Projections#
Lazard CL is expected to generate around $500 million in revenue by 2027, enhancing Lazard’s existing revenue of $3.1 billion. In the past two years, the combined businesses have raised over $190 billion in capital for clients and managed over $100 billion in secondary transactions. This acquisition is anticipated to positively impact Lazard's earnings starting in 2027.
Regulatory Approval and Leadership#
The acquisition is expected to close in 2026, pending regulatory approvals. Andrew Sealey, Chairman of Campbell Lutyens, will take on the role of non-executive Chairman for Lazard CL, while senior leadership from both firms will continue in their positions. Founded in 1988, Campbell Lutyens has a strong track record, having raised over $713 billion in capital across its 35 years of operation.