KKR (NYSE:KKR) Conference Transcript

KKR Conference Call Summary - December 09, 2025 Company Overview - KKR (NYSE: KKR) is a leading global alternative asset manager with over $720 billion in assets under management [1][1] - The company has raised over $100 billion in capital in 2025, indicating strong investment performance and activity [1][1] Economic Outlook - The economic landscape is characterized by a bifurcation, with different sectors experiencing varied outcomes [3][4] - The U.S. has been in a manufacturing recession for the past 2-3 years, while larger companies have seen margin expansion from 14% to 19% over five years [4][4] - The next few years will reveal the impact of past investment decisions, leading to a clearer distinction between successful and struggling businesses [6][6] Fundraising and Investment Themes - KKR is on track to meet its target of raising over $300 billion from 2024 to 2026, having raised approximately $200 billion so far [9][9] - Significant demand is noted across all asset classes, particularly in credit, which accounted for $55 billion of the $101 billion raised in 2025 [12][12] - Real estate equity remains challenging, but there is growing interest in real estate credit [14][14] Realization Activity - KKR has seen a ramp-up in realization activity, with a projected $1 billion in monetization income over the next quarters [19][19] - The firm has approximately $17 billion in unrealized carry, up 10% year-over-year, indicating strong underlying portfolio performance [21][21] Private Credit Growth - KKR expects continued robust growth in credit, managing about $280 billion in credit assets, with $130 billion in private credit [24][24] - Asset-Based Finance (ABF) is highlighted as a significant growth area, with $84 billion in AUM, up 30% over the last year [29][29] Real Assets and Infrastructure - KKR's infrastructure business has grown to $95 billion in AUM, with management fees increasing over 20% annually [33][33] - The firm anticipates a cyclical recovery in real estate, with $85 billion in AUM, half of which is in credit [36][36] Wealth Management Expansion - KKR's K-Series has grown to $32 billion in assets, with plans for further expansion in distribution networks and product offerings [39][39] - The partnership with Capital Group aims to reach a broader audience, targeting households below the accredited investor level [44][44] Strategic Holdings and Dividends - KKR's Strategic Holdings segment is expected to increase dividends from $120 million to $350 million by 2026, with steady revenue and EBITDA growth [54][54] - The focus is on companies that provide attractive long-term cash flows and are recession-resistant [56][56] M&A Strategy - KKR has engaged in strategic acquisitions totaling $10-$11 billion, focusing on businesses where it can be a top-three player globally [61][61] - The firm emphasizes cultural fit and permanency of capital in its acquisition strategy [62][62] Conclusion - KKR is positioned for continued growth across various asset classes, with a strong focus on private credit, infrastructure, and wealth management, while navigating a complex economic landscape [1][1][3][4][9][12][24][33][39][54][61]