Pension Funds Take Nautical Turn in Hunt For Higher Returns
Pension funds, squeezed by low interest rates, are exploring investments in shipping in their hunt for higher returns, hoping to benefit once this industry starts to recover from one of its worst ever downturns. There are signs of a gradual pick-up in world trade and ship values for the first time since the financial crisis. Ship financier NordLB has said the market could see a broad recovery but not before 2016. The industry's revival could deliver double-digit returns for pension funds that decide to add shipping to their so-called alternative assets such as infrastructure, which can make up about 15 percent of a fund. But they need to do their homework.
H.I.G. Capital Completes Acquisition of PetroCom
PetroCom LLC announced that an affiliate of H.I.G. Capital, a Miami-based private investment firm, has completed the previously announced acquisition of PetroCom. Headquartered in New Orleans, PetroCom is a leading cellular carrier in the Gulf of Mexico and a full-service telecommunications solutions provider for the offshore industry. Last year H.I.G., through its Bayside Capital affiliate, acquired Sola Communications, a leader in the delivery of telecommunications related services for the offshore oil and gas and emergency services markets. In connection with its acquisition of PetroCom, H.I.G. also obtained regulatory approval to combine the PetroCom and Sola businesses. PetroCom is the fifth Gulf area company in which H.I.G. has invested in the past few years.
PetroCom, LLC To Be Acquired by H.I.G. Capital Affiliate
PetroCom LLC has entered into a binding agreement to be acquired by an affiliate of H.I.G. Capital, a Miami-based private investment firm. Headquartered in New Orleans, LA, PetroCom is a leading cellular carrier in the Gulf of Mexico and a full-service telecommunications solutions provider for the offshore industry. PetroCom President Ken Wright commented, "We are thrilled to partner with a premier private equity firm as we enter our next stage of growth. H.I.G.'s investment represents an important milestone in our Company's history, and their support will enable us to significantly expand our footprint. Earlier this year H.I.G., through its Bayside Capital affiliate…
