Specialist financial services investor B.P. Marsh & Partners PLC (AIM: BPM) has announced a £10 million investment in iO Partners, acquiring an 8% stake through a mix of Preferred and Ordinary shares.

iO Partners is a new entrant to the UK’s alternative finance sector, pursuing a buy-and-build strategy aimed at consolidating a diverse group of non-bank finance providers. The firm’s mission is to address a persistent funding gap in the UK market by offering alternative capital solutions to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and drive economic growth.

B.P. Marsh’s investment is part of a joint transaction alongside Janus Henderson, the global asset manager, which is also committing £10 million on the same terms. Janus Henderson, listed on the NYSE and headquartered in London, managed approximately £302.4 billion in assets as of 31 December 2024.

The investment is viewed by B.P. Marsh as a strong strategic fit, aligned with its focus on early-stage financial services firms and insurance distribution. The company cited the proven track record of iO Partners’ leadership and the strength of its co-investors as compelling reasons for participation.

The firm added that it continues to see a strong pipeline of potential investments within the insurance intermediary market and expects to make further commitments during the current financial year ending 31 January 2026.

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