Arma Partners is pleased to announce that it has acted as financial advisor to Astorg on its entry into exclusive negotiations with Nordic Capital which would result in Nordic Capital becoming the controlling shareholder of Anaqua, succeeding Astorg.

Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Boston, Anaqua’s software platform is the mission-critical hub for the entire IP ecosystem and empowers the world’s most innovative companies to create, manage, protect and monetise their most valuable assets. Anaqua helps its global customers including Nvidia, Honda and IBM manage the full IP lifecycle through the integration of software-led workflows, renewal payments, filings, analytics and related services. Anaqua employs more than 800 staff across North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific.

Acquired by Astorg in 2019 and representing the firm’s first investment in the United States, Anaqua has experienced strong and consistent growth under Astorg’s ownership and solidified its market-leading position. Nordic Capital would support Anaqua’s continued growth in innovation-driven industries and accelerate its expansion across North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific both organically and through strategic acquisitions.

This transaction underscores Arma Partners’ ability to deliver highly successful outcomes for category-leading software companies on both sides of the Atlantic and consistent track record of successfully advising global private equity investors on landmark multi-billion transactions.

Definitive agreements for the acquisition would be entered into after information and consultation with employee representative bodies. The transaction would be subject to customary regulatory approvals and would be expected to close by Q1 2025.