Investment firm Infranity pours €190 million into Eliance, the air transportation company
The European investment landscape is witnessing significant changes, with several key players making strategic moves to support various sectors.
In a notable development, the European Investment Bank (EIB) has partnered with Rabobank in a €1bn SME financing deal. This partnership is expected to provide a substantial boost to small and medium enterprises, particularly those focused on climate and environment.
Meanwhile, Infranity, a Paris-based asset manager, has made two significant investments. First, they invested €200m in Blue Elephant Energy, a German renewable energy company. Second, Infranity committed €190m in financing to Eliance, a Spanish emergency air transport services provider. As part of the transaction, Swiss Life Asset Managers provided Eliance with extra cash to support its expansion in its home markets.
Eliance, founded in 1958 and based in Madrid, operates a fleet of over 100 helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. The company is mostly active in Spain and Italy, managing public contracts in emergency medical services, search and rescue, and firefighting. Infranity's investment director, Georgios Tzimas, stated that the financing will ensure the sustainability of Eliance's operations and pave the way for future growth and innovation in the aerial emergency services sector.
The European market for emergency medical services is forecast to grow between 3.1% to 4.5% annually. However, when it comes to the global air ambulance market, a more specific projection is provided by Technavio. According to their research, the market is forecast to grow by $6.77bn (€5.77bn) between 2023 and 2028, at an annual compound growth rate of 10.05%.
Elsewhere, Swedfund, a Swedish development finance institution, has reaffirmed its commitment to an African microfinance specialist by providing a consecutive loan. The exact nature and purpose of the loan are not specified in the article.
In addition, the International Finance Corporation (IIX) has launched its seventh Women's Livelihood Bond with a $60m tranche. The bond is intended to empower women and support their economic growth and financial inclusion.
These investments and partnerships underscore the ongoing commitment of European institutions and asset managers to support a wide range of sectors, from renewable energy and air ambulance services to microfinance and women's economic empowerment.
- The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Rabobank's partnership for a €1bn SME financing deal is an example of development finance, aiming to support small and medium enterprises, particularly those focusing on climate and environmental issues.
- Infranity, a Paris-based asset manager, is investing in various sectors, such as renewable energy and emergency air transport services, demonstrating their role in blended finance, where they blend private and public capital to fulfill strategic objectives.
- The International Finance Corporation (IIX) has launched its Women's Livelihood Bond with a $60m tranche, indicating an investment in women's financial inclusion to foster their economic growth and empowerment.
