Cevian Capital

Overview

Cevian Capital is an international investment firm that acquires significant minority ownership positions in European public companies, aiming to advance long-term and sustainable value creation. Founded in 2002 by Lars Förberg and Christer Gardell, the firm has built a reputation as a leading activist investor in Europe. Its investment strategy focuses on companies where it can influence management and strategy to unlock value, typically holding positions for several years to effect meaningful change. The firm's portfolio spans various industries, including technology, automotive, construction materials, telecommunications, mining, banking, education, industrial equipment, medical devices, financial services, engineering, and insurance. Notable investments include ABB, Autoliv, CRH, Ericsson, Metso Outotec, Nordea, Pearson Education, Rexel, SKF, Smith & Nephew, UBS, and Vesuvius. Cevian Capital's professionals often serve on the boards of these companies, providing strategic guidance and oversight. Cevian Capital's approach is characterized by proactive, hands-on ownership designed to make companies better and more valuable. The firm invests long-term capital provided primarily by pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, endowments, foundations, large family offices, and its own partners. This strategy has been consistent since its inception, leveraging over two decades of experience, expertise, networks, and relationships to drive value creation in its portfolio companies.

Investment Focus

• Significant minority ownership positions in large public companies
• Active engagement with company management and boards
• Focus on long-term and sustainable value creation
• Investment sizes ranging from $100 million to $5 billion
• Geographical focus on European markets, with some investments in North America and Asia
• Significant minority ownership positions in European public companies
• Ability to influence management and strategy
• Long-term investment horizon

Portfolio Companies