Core Insights - Harrison Street Asset Management has acquired a majority stake in RoundShield Partners, enhancing its European platform and expanding its capabilities in credit, student housing, and hospitality [1][4] Company Overview - Harrison Street Asset Management is a leading global alternative investment management firm with over $100 billion in assets under management, focusing on infrastructure, real estate, and credit strategies [5] - RoundShield Partners, headquartered in Jersey, specializes in asset-backed capital solutions across real estate, infrastructure, and financial assets, managing $5.4 billion in assets [2] Transaction Details - Harrison Street has acquired a 60% equity interest in RoundShield from its management team and a third-party financial investor, with the remaining ownership retained by RoundShield's senior management [3] - The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed [1] Strategic Implications - The acquisition is seen as a pivotal step for Harrison Street, adding credit capabilities in Europe and creating opportunities for collaboration in sectors like student housing and hospitality [4] - RoundShield's expertise in vertically integrated student housing platforms presents an opportunity to scale combined operations across the region [4] Leadership Perspectives - Christopher Merrill, CEO of Harrison Street, emphasized the potential for innovation and collaboration through this partnership [4] - Driss Benkirane, Founder of RoundShield, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the strong endorsement of their team and platform [4]