Patria stands as a prominent alternative investment firm, boasting over 35 years of specialized expertise in resilient sectors. The firm has successfully maneuvered through diverse markets, rooted in Brazil and concentrating on Latin America. Michael Majdalany, Head of Middle East at Patria, elucidates, 'Our success hinges on a blend of profound sector knowledge and local insights, crafting diverse and customized investment options for our clientele. We excel in agribusiness, power and energy, healthcare, logistics, transportation, and digital tech services, offering exceptional market insights. This strategy has consistently yielded attractive returns and fostered community development.'
Patria's initial Middle Eastern engagement was with a Sovereign Wealth Fund in 1997, which invested in their Private Equity Fund. As more regional funds entrusted Patria with their Latin American investments, the Middle East became pivotal, leading to the establishment of a local office in Dubai's DIFC in 2016. Majdalany notes, 'Our presence here covers the Middle East and parts of Central Asia, focusing on the GCC. Local understanding is crucial for meeting market and investor needs. Our approach involves maintaining local ties.'
This local expertise enables Patria to tailor investment opportunities for each region and client, a strategy that has consistently delivered favorable outcomes. As Latin America's leading alternative asset manager, Patria has effectively deployed Middle Eastern capital across Private Equity, Infrastructure, Credit, Growth, VC, and Real Estate. Majdalany reports Assets Under Management at approximately $42bn and highlights partnerships like the one with Saudi PIF for Brazilian transportation infrastructure. Recent successes include a $1.2 billion toll road concession in Brazil.
Beyond Latin America, Patria offers Global Private Markets solutions for European and global mid-market investments. Looking ahead, Patria sees significant potential in Middle Eastern markets, both as a capital source and for portfolio growth. They are exploring raw material off-take opportunities, such as bitumen and fertilizers, and have signed an MoU with the Saudi Ministry of Investments to explore mutual investment opportunities.
