PNC to Expand Primary Fund Placement Capabilities With Aqueduct Acquisition

Acquisition Overview - PNC Bank plans to acquire Aqueduct Capital Group to enhance the primary fund placement capabilities of its subsidiary Harris Williams, with the transaction expected to close in midsummer, subject to customary closing conditions [1] - The acquisition is complementary to existing capital advisory capabilities and will expand PNC's ability to serve the global capital needs of the private equity industry [2] Company Profiles - Aqueduct Capital Group is a placement agent focused on raising capital for private equity, private credit, and real asset managers, advising clients on various fundraising solutions since its founding in 2003 [3] - Harris Williams is a global investment bank specializing in mergers and acquisitions and private capital advisory services, serving clients worldwide [2] Strategic Benefits - The agreement increases the ability to serve a broader range of clients due to minimal overlap in client bases or limited partner relationships [3] - The partnership provides an opportunity to leverage collective relationships and enable clients to diversify their investor base across North America, Australia, Europe, and Asia [3] Recent Developments - In May 2024, PNC and TCW Group formalized and expanded their partnership to develop a private credit platform focused on middle market lending [3] - PNC's Chairman and CEO highlighted that combining PNC's lending capabilities with TCW's private credit group will significantly benefit companies seeking growth opportunities [4] - PNC completed the acquisition of BBVA USA in 2021 to accelerate its national expansion and enhance its technology, products, and services [5]