Deutsche Beteiligungs AG has stunned investors with a dramatic 75% drop in first-half net profit, plunging to €8.2 million from €31.7 million year-over-year. The private equity specialist faces mounting challenges as a sluggish economy and global crises weigh on its portfolio of mid-sized industrial firms across Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. Net asset value per share slipped from €35.78 to €35.21, with the company projecting a modest €35–€38 range for 2025. Operational struggles are evident: fund advisory EBITA tumbled 20% to €7.1 million, while delayed orders and a subdued private equity market further dented performance. Management had already slashed annual forecasts in July, signaling deepening concerns.
Glimmer of Hope in Private Debt
Amid the downturn, Deutsche Beteiligungs highlights growth in private debt financing, structuring three new mid-market deals and completing €83 million in transactions since partnering with ELF Capital. A strategic minority stake in financing platform FinMatch aims to bolster offerings. Despite the turmoil, the firm maintains its dividend of €1.25 per share and continues a €20 million buyback program. Shares dipped 0.21% to €24.10, reflecting eroding investor confidence in a near-term rebound.
