KKR - an Overview
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR) is a $48-billion alternative asset manager, arguably the most experienced private equity firm in the world. Since 1976, it has specialized in leveraged and management buyouts, among other financial transactions.
So far Kohlberg Kravis Roberts has transacted with more than 160 companies, collectively worth over $420 billion. They include the likes of TXU, RJR Nabisco, Hospital Corporation of America, Beatrice, Gillette, Masonite, Accuride, Playtex, Sealy, Borden, Alliance Boots, Owens-Illinois, Safeway, Toys R Us, US Natural Resources, Nielsen, First Data, Houdaille, and many more. Today, there are over 45 companies in its portfolio.
KKR is known for orchestrating large and sophisticated takeovers. They include the biggest leveraged buyout deals in the United States, Europe, India, Singapore, and Turkey. It was the first company in history to make a $1-billion buyout deal, with its acquisition of Wometco in 1984. It also has 14 private equity funds, which counts 9 million members.
Buyout trailblazers Henry Kravis, George Roberts, and Jerome Kohlberg are the company’s founders. The three were colleagues at Bear Stearns when they decided to establish their eponymous company.
Led by CEO Michael Calbert, KKR is based in New York City. It has branches throughout Asia, Europe, and Australia.
