August 20th, 2024 – New York, London – The Dot Group (“Dot” or the “Group”), the transformational leader in global student living, is pleased to announce a strategic financing relationship with Blue Owl’s GP Strategic Capital platform (“Blue Owl”), which provides minority equity and financing solutions to private capital managers.

Establishing this long-term relationship provides Dot access to institutional capital and support for accretive opportunities. The relationship with Blue Owl’s GP Strategic Capital platform forms part of a broader strategy to fuel growth initiatives across the Group with specific focus on Global Student Accommodation (GSA), Dot’s real estate asset and fund manager, and Yugo, its global student housing operator and brand.

The Blue Owl relationship aligns closely with Dot’s investment horizon and strategic goals, building on a shared culture, vision and purpose. It will play a central role in accelerating business development plans, capitalising on Dot’s global experience and relationships with world class institutions and universities.

Nick Porter, CEO of The Dot Group, commented:

“We are incredibly proud to establish this long-term relationship with Blue Owl, which represents an important strategic step in Dot’s journey as our Group continues to grow and evolve.

This world-class relationship highlights the strength of Dot’s global market position, the depth of our expert management teams, and the sheer magnitude of opportunities that exist for our Group, all underpinned by the student sector’s robust demand, growing demographics and improving market conditions.  

I would like to thank Steve Grant, Dot’s Chief Corporate Development Officer, for his leadership on this transaction. I am very pleased to forge this strategic relationship with Blue Owl, it is an exciting time for our business, and I am looking forward to the future of Dot.”

Michael Rees, Co-President and Head of Blue Owl’s GP Strategic Capital platform, commented:

“We believe Dot is a leader in the student housing real estate space and are excited to add this innovative Group to our portfolio. We look forward to supporting Dot as the Group continues to provide housing for students and long-term growth for investors.”

Over the last 30 years, Dot has built an unrivalled presence and track-record in the global student living sector, with access to all aspects of the higher-education universe. The Group’s international reach, market access, intelligence and research capabilities create a highly competitive edge for Dot’s businesses.

As global sector specialists, Dot with its businesses, are committed to providing a holistic student experience offering connected and supportive environments that make a real difference in students’ lives.

Berkshire Global Advisors served as financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP acted as legal advisor to Dot.