Workflow
BLK Acquires HPS Investment: Is it Riding on Private Credit Growth?
BlackRockBlackRock(US:BLK) ZACKSยท2025-07-02 15:36

Core Insights - BlackRock Inc. has completed the acquisition of HPS Investment Partners, marking a significant move into the private credit market, which is becoming increasingly lucrative in global finance [1][12]. Private Credit Market - The private credit sector is reshaping financial markets and facilitating the convergence of public and private markets, with capital markets becoming the primary financing avenue for asset managers [2]. Strategic Initiatives - To leverage opportunities in private credit, BlackRock is launching Private Financing Solutions (PFS), which will integrate its private credit, GP, LP solutions, and both private and liquid CLO businesses [3]. Financial Projections - The acquisition of HPS is projected to increase BlackRock's private markets fee-paying assets under management (AUM) by 40% and management fees by 35%. In 2025, HPS is expected to contribute approximately $850 million in base fees and nearly $360 million in post-tax fee-related earnings (FRE) at a 50% margin [4][12]. Growth Targets - BlackRock aims to raise $400 billion in private markets fundraising by 2030 as part of its strategy to enhance private credit capabilities [5]. Recent Acquisitions - In March 2025, BlackRock acquired Preqin to improve its private markets data offerings and previously acquired Global Infrastructure Partners to enhance its infrastructure capabilities [6]. AUM and Revenue Growth - BlackRock's AUM has shown a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.2%, reaching a record $11.58 trillion as of March 31, 2025, with net inflows of $83 billion [7]. Product Diversification - The company is diversifying its product suite, which is expected to bolster revenue mix and reduce revenue concentration risk, aiding AUM growth [9]. Dividend and Share Repurchase - BlackRock announced a 2% increase in its quarterly dividend to $5.21 per share and has a share repurchase plan aiming to buy back $1.5 billion worth of shares in 2025 [14][18]. Analyst Sentiment - Analysts have revised the earnings per share estimates for 2025 and 2026 upward to $44.92 and $50.71, indicating positive growth expectations [19]. Valuation Metrics - BlackRock's price-to-book ratio of 3.39X is lower than the industry average of 3.73X, suggesting the stock is trading at a discount relative to expected earnings growth [25][27].