Brysam Buys Into Russian Bank

Brysam Global Partners has acquired a 9.9% interest in Vozrozhdenie Bank, a Russian financial institution based in Moscow. No financial terms were disclosed.

 

PRESS RELEASE

Brysam Global Partners, a U.S. private equity firm that specializes in consumer financial services in emerging markets, announced today that it has acquired a 9.9% minority interest in Vozrozhdenie Bank (“Vozrozhdenie”), a leading Russian financial institution based in Moscow. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Brysam's co-founder and Managing Partner, Robert B. Willumstad, will join Vozrozhdenie's board.

 

Founded in 1991, Vozrozhdenie ranks among the Top 30 Russian Banks. Its network includes 169 offices and 550 ATMs in 20 regions of Russia, providing more than 1,150,000 individual and 49,000 corporate clients with a range of financial services.

 

Commenting on Brysam's investment, Dmitry Orlov, Chairman of the Management Board of Vozrozhdenie, said, “We welcome Brysam's involvement, not only as a valued shareholder, but also as a source of deep industry knowledge and advice for improving our current services and helping our business flourish into the future. Bob Willumstad will be an excellent addition to our Board and we look forward to his contributions.”

 

“This investment directly aligns with our strategy of focusing on consumer financial services in emerging markets,” said Mr. Willumstad. “We are pleased to partner with Vozrozhdenie as it continues to develop at the forefront of the Russian financial services industry and builds upon its excellent reputation in corporate governance and transparency. Vozrozhdenie has a clear strategy and an enviable track record of strong performance in serving retail and small business customers. We look forward to working with Vozrozhdenie as the bank increases its momentum in the consumer banking market and strengthens competition in the Russian financial services industry, while creating long-term value for shareholders.”

 

Brysam is led by Robert B. Willumstad, non-executive Chairman of AIG and former President and Chief Operating Officer of Citigroup, and Marge Magner, former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Citigroup's Global Consumer Group.

 

About Brysam Global Partners

Brysam Global Partners is a specialized private equity firm that invests in financial services with a focus on consumer opportunities in emerging markets where it can leverage its management and operational expertise. Established in 2007, Brysam Global Partners was created to fill a need in the investment arena for experienced operating management in financial services. Brysam adds value by creating business models that develop and increase profitability and value. In addition to making control investments from its own capital and investor funds, Brysam will co-invest with financial institutions and private equity firms. Brysam currently has investments in Mexico and India.