Lazard has agreed to acquire private markets advisory specialist Campbell Lutyens in a transaction valued at approximately $575m, a move that will see the creation of a new dedicated private capital advisory business, according to a report by Reuters.
The combined platform, to be branded Lazard CL, will bring together Lazard’s existing private capital advisory capabilities with Campbell Lutyens’ fundraising and secondary advisory expertise. The new division will operate across key alternative asset classes including private equity, private credit, infrastructure, and real estate.
Lazard CL will become the firm’s third global business line and is expected to span the full capital lifecycle, from fund formation through to liquidity solutions and broader strategic advisory services. The integration will also combine proprietary datasets from both firms to enhance client coverage and execution.
Leadership of the new unit will be shared between Holcombe Green, who currently heads Lazard’s global private capital advisory business, and Gordon Bajnai, chief executive of Campbell Lutyens.
Lazard said the acquisition aligns with its long-term strategic roadmap and is intended to support expansion in private markets advisory. Management described the deal as a key step in strengthening the firm’s position in alternative asset fundraising and secondary transactions.
In addition to the upfront consideration, the agreement includes a contingent payment of up to $85m, linked to performance milestones over several years.
The transaction is expected to contribute positively to Lazard’s earnings from 2027 onward, according to the firm.
