Growth Driven by Geographic and End-Market Expansion
Open Link Financial, Inc (OpenLink) today announced that The Carlyle Group has agreed to sell OpenLink, a software provider for participants in the global commodity, energy, agribusiness, commercial/industrial and financial markets, to affiliates of Hellman & Friedman. The transaction is subject to traditional closing conditions and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2011.
Kevin Hesselbirg, ceo of OpenLink, said, “Since partnering with Carlyle, OpenLink has significantly expanded our leading market presence through entering new geographies and end-markets, including two complementary acquisitions, increasing R&D and capital investments by over 20%, and adding more than 250 new employees. Partnering with Hellman & Friedman will enable us to further develop our product and service capabilities, reach new markets, and continue to pursue more acquisitions. Our partnership with Carlyle has been fruitful and we are grateful for their counsel and efforts.”
David Tunnell, a managing director at Hellman & Friedman, said, “OpenLink is the market leader in cross-asset trading and risk management with a proven track record of success, having driven average organic revenue growth in excess of 20% per year since 2006. We are excited to partner with Kevin and his excellent team, and look forward to working together to capitalize on significant future opportunities in the growing energy, commodities, agribusiness markets, and in the trading and risk management sector broadly.”
Cam Dyer, principal on Carlyle’s U.S. Buyout technology sector team, said, “OpenLink has been a great growth story. Geographic expansion, complementary acquisitions, and increased internal investment have all led to significant revenue and EBITDA growth. CEO Kevin Hesselbirg and his team have delivered superior technology solutions and outstanding results for their clients and our investors. We believe OpenLink has a bright future and we wish it continued success under Hellman & Friedman’s ownership.”
Credit Suisse and Crescent Mezzanine have provided committed financing for the transaction. Alston & Bird served as legal counsel for OpenLink and The Carlyle Group. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett served as legal counsel for Hellman & Friedman. Credit Suisse acted as financial advisor to Hellman & Friedman.
