Life insurer Guardian Life delegates private equity management to Hamilton Lane

Core Insights - Guardian Life Insurance Company of America has partnered with Hamilton Lane to manage its private equity portfolio valued at nearly $5 billion and to facilitate further investments in the sector [1][2] - Guardian plans to invest approximately $500 million annually in private equity over the next decade, with Hamilton Lane responsible for deploying these funds [2] - The collaboration will provide Guardian's general account with exposure to various private equity investments, including primary, co-investment, and secondary transactions [3] Investment Strategy - Guardian will allocate $250 million in initial capital for new evergreen initiatives aimed at expanding investment opportunities within Hamilton Lane's Global Evergreen Platform [2] - The partnership is expected to enhance Guardian's investment and wealth management capabilities, supporting the financial well-being of its customers and policyholders through innovative, long-term strategies [7] Operational Details - The transaction is anticipated to close by the end of 2025, after which Guardian's private equity investment team will transition to Hamilton Lane [6] - Hamilton Lane will collaborate with Park Avenue Securities, Guardian's registered broker-dealer and investment adviser, to develop investment solutions and provide educational support for over 2,400 advisors managing approximately $58.5 billion in assets [5] Strategic Importance - The partnership reflects a growing trend where alternative asset managers and life insurers are forming closer ties, providing insurers access to new origination channels and higher-yielding investments [4][5] - Hamilton Lane's co-CEO emphasized the strategic nature of the partnership, highlighting the alignment of values and the commitment to delivering high-quality solutions [4]