POELLATH

What they fund

POELLATH does not provide capital; it provides legal and tax advisory services for transactions. [1][2] The firm advises on deals ranging from early-stage venture capital rounds, such as the investment by Inflexion in MAP, to large-scale buyouts like the sale of INNIO to the Nasdaq. [1][2] They also advise on the formation of continuation funds, such as the Accel-KKR-led fund for Securepoint, and the creation of new investment vehicles like the Gaius Nachfolgekapital I fund. [1][2] Their services are tailored to the legal and tax structuring needs of these transactions, rather than direct funding.

Investment thesis

POELLATH is a market-leading German law firm providing integrated legal and tax advice for complex transactions and asset management, rather than a capital investor. [1][2] The firm structures its practice around high-end M&A, private equity, and venture capital, acting as legal counsel for both buyers and sellers in buyouts, growth capital, and IPOs. [1][2] They also advise on private wealth succession, investment fund formation, and real estate transactions, leveraging a deep network of family offices and institutional investors. [1][2] The firm's strategy relies on providing 'legal and tax advice from one source' to shape market best practice for corporate clients and high-net-worth individuals. [1][2]

Credibility: The firm's own website explicitly states its focus on 'transactions and asset management' and lists its practice areas, including M&A, PE, VC, and Investment Funds. [1][2]

Value add

The firm offers integrated legal and tax advice from a single source, which is critical for complex cross-border and multi-jurisdictional transactions. [1][2] They provide strategic counsel on market best practices, leveraging their deep expertise in private equity and asset management. [1][2] Fit verdict: POELLATH is an essential advisor for founders and investors navigating M&A, PE, and VC transactions in Germany and internationally. Founder diligence script: 1. What is your track record in structuring tax-efficient deals for family businesses? 2. How do you coordinate between your legal and tax teams for complex transactions? 3. Can you provide examples of recent PE or VC deals you have advised on?

Portfolio focus

The firm advises on numerous high-profile transactions, including the sale of KGS Software GmbH to GENUI, the acquisition of Exolaunch by EQT, and the sale of PIA Media to HIGH VIEW. [1][2] They also advised on the sale of MDT technologies to BU Bregal and the sale of the GBA Group to Bridgepoint. [1][2] The firm's work spans across technology, industrial, and consumer sectors, reflecting a broad transactional portfolio.

Notable investments & exits

The firm advised on the sale of KGS Software GmbH to GENUI, a significant exit in the software sector. [1][2] It also advised on the sale of PIA Media to HIGH VIEW, another notable transaction in the media and technology space. [1][2] The firm's advisory work on the INNIO Nasdaq IPO represents a major public market exit for the company. [1][2]

Strategic implications

POELLATH's edge lies in its integrated legal and tax advisory model, which is highly valued for complex M&A and PE transactions. The firm's strong presence in the German market and its international network make it a key player for cross-border deals. The firm's focus on private wealth and family businesses provides a steady pipeline of succession and restructuring mandates.

Where they could go further

The firm could expand its advisory services for early-stage VC deals, given the growing German startup ecosystem. There is an opportunity to deepen its expertise in emerging sectors like climate tech and AI, which are attracting significant PE and VC interest. The firm could enhance its digital capabilities to offer more streamlined transaction management tools for its clients.