KKR & Co (NYSE:KKR) announced on Thursday that it will open a new office in Milan as the U.S. private equity group strengthens its long-term presence in Italy following major investments across the telecommunications and energy sectors.
The move reflects KKR’s growing focus on the Italian market after several high-profile transactions completed over the past two years.
Major Investments Strengthen Italian Footprint
Among the firm’s most notable deals was the acquisition of Telecom Italia’s (BIT:TIT) fixed-line network by a KKR-led consortium in a transaction valued at €19 billion ($22 billion).
KKR also acquired a 30% stake in Enilive, the biofuel division of Eni (BIT:ENI), in a deal worth approximately €3.6 billion.
These investments have significantly expanded the firm’s exposure to strategic infrastructure and energy assets within Italy.
Milan Office to Support Broad Investment Activities
According to a company statement, the new Milan office will oversee KKR’s operations in private equity, real assets, credit and insurance, alongside its private wealth activities in the country.
The office will be headed by Marco Fontana, a partner within KKR’s infrastructure division. Nicolo Della Casa, currently a director in the firm’s private equity team, will lead KKR’s private equity operations in Italy.