Asia IP

Anaqua, the leading provider of innovation and intellectual property management solutions, today announced that the business will receive a significant equity investment from Astorg, a leading European private equity firm. As part of this transaction, Astorg will become the controlling shareholder of Anaqua, replacing Insight Venture Partners and Bessemer Venture Partners, both of which have been investors since 2013.

The transaction will accelerate Anaqua’s global organic growth and acquisition strategy. This announcement follows the recent launch of AQX, Anaqua’s leading-edge software platform. With theintegrated AQX platform, Anaqua’s customers can seamlessly access analytics and tech-enabled services to transformtheir IP assets into business success.

Astorg is exclusively focused on investing in global B2B niche market leaders with a clear vision and demonstrated ability to drive growth, create value and enjoy long-term relationships with their clients.

“Astorg will be a great partner going forward and this strengthens Anaqua’s capacity to pursue strategic growth initiatives,” said Bob Romeo, CEO of Anaqua. “This is a clear vote of confidence in Anaqua’s direction, products, services, people, and clients.”

“From our initial interactions with the Anaqua team, we recognized a unique ability to consistently deliver innovative market-leading, differentiated solutions,” said François de Mitry, Managing Partner of Astorg.

“Anaqua’s unique partnership with its clients combined with a clear vision to transform IP into business success will be a game-changer for the IP industry,” said Michael Beetz, Director of Astorg.

“Since our investment in 2013, we have enjoyed partnering with Anaqua to drive exceptional growth as the company has become a leader in the Intellectual Property industry,” said Richard Wells, Managing Director of Insight Venture Partners, Anaqua’s current controlling stakeholder. “We wish the company and the management team well as they enter this next phase of scaling.”

The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and closing conditions.

William Blair & Company, LLC served as financial advisor and Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP served as legal advisor to Anaqua. Evercore Inc served as financial advisor and Latham & Watkins LLP served as legal counsel to Astorg.