Tikehau Capital has announced the launch of a new private equity fund in collaboration with Société Générale Assurances, CNP Assurances, and CARAC Group. The fund, known as Tikehau Défense et Sécurité (TDS), is designed to focus on European defense and security sectors and will be available through life insurance policies.
The initial commitment for this Article 8 fund is set at 150 million euros, with investments split equally among the three partner insurers. This initiative aims to bolster French and European industrial and technological capabilities amid increasing challenges to strategic autonomy in defense and security. The fund's objective includes fostering future European leaders while promoting job creation and economic growth in France and Europe.
Aeronautics and cybersecurity are key areas of interest due to their market size and growth potential. These sectors feature companies with dual civilian-military operations, enhancing resilience through cross-industry collaboration.
TDS is unique as it is the first unlisted asset vehicle eligible for unit-linked investment focused entirely on defense and security issues. Initially, only the three partner insurers will have exclusive rights until September 2026 to list and market this fund within their policies. Post this period, Tikehau Defense and Security will become accessible to other insurers as well as professional investors.
Individual policyholders can invest in these strategic sectors of the European economy through TDS, aiming for attractive performance while diversifying savings. The fund plans to invest in primary, secondary or co-investment opportunities within targeted European companies. It may also explore private debt investments.
Henri Marcoux, Deputy CEO of Tikehau Capital remarked: "With four private asset unit-linked products launched in 5 years, Tikehau Capital has become a key player in the democratization of non-listed investments via life insurance in France."
Michel Andignac from CARAC Group expressed that participating in this venture seemed natural: "It will enable us to step up our own investments... supporting sovereignty...of France."
Philippe Perret from Société Générale Assurances stated: "We are delighted to announce this new partnership with Tikehau Capital... enabling them [investors] to participate in financing...European companies..."
François Guilgot from CNP Assurances noted: "CNP Assurances relies on expertise...to offer its customers access...by investing...mainly private equity."
The effort receives backing from both the French Ministry of Defense and French Armament Procurement Agency aiming towards critical sector financing while addressing demand for real economy-geared savings products focused on long-term priorities.