Ares Management

Lore & Background

Ares Management was established in 1997 by co-founders Antony Ressler, Michael Arougheti, David Kaplan, John H. Kissick, and Bennett Rosenthal. The firm expanded into Europe in 2006 with the founding of Ares Management Limited, authorized by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. In May 2007, the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority acquired a minority interest in the firm without voting or governance rights. Ares Management completed its initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange in May 2014.

The company has grown through a series of strategic acquisitions. In January 2017, it completed the $3.4 billion purchase of American Capital. In July 2020, it acquired a controlling stake in Hong Kong–based SSG Capital Management, which now operates as Ares SSG. In July 2021, it acquired Black Creek Group's U.S. real estate investment advisory and distribution business. In October 2024, Ares acquired the international business of GLP Capital Partners for approximately $3.7 billion in cash and $1.9 billion in stock. In December 2024, it acquired 10% of the Miami Dolphins NFL franchise. In April 2026, Ares agreed to acquire Whitestone REIT for $1.7 billion.

Reader's Guide

Ares Management's significance lies in its position as a dominant force in the private debt market and its broad diversification across credit, private equity, and real estate. The firm's four business units—Ares Credit Group, Ares Private Equity Group, Ares Real Estate Group, and Ares SSG—allow it to operate across multiple asset classes and geographies. Its acquisition of SSG Capital Management expanded its footprint in the Asia-Pacific region, while the purchase of GLP Capital Partners' international business further strengthened its global reach. The firm's ability to raise large funds, such as the $7.85 billion fifth global private equity fund closed in April 2016, and its investments in high-profile assets like the Miami Dolphins, underscore its scale and influence. Ares Management's legacy is that of a major institutional investment platform that has shaped the alternative asset management industry through consistent growth and strategic acquisitions.

Did You Know?

• Ares Management was co-founded in 1997 by Antony Ressler, Michael Arougheti, David Kaplan, John H. Kissick, and Bennett Rosenthal.
• In December 2024, Ares acquired 10% of the Miami Dolphins, one of the first deals allowing outside investors into an NFL franchise after league rule changes.