We at FinancialMediaGuide note that the world’s largest alternative asset manager, Blackstone, has appointed Michele Raba, a former senior executive at Apollo Global Management, to head its European corporate private equity division. This appointment fills the vacancy left after the previous head’s promotion – and underscores Blackstone’s strategic focus on expanding its European footprint.
According to our analysts, Blackstone currently manages more than $350 billion in assets across Europe and plans to invest up to $500 billion in the region over the next decade. The company’s Global Head of Private Equity, Joseph Baratta, emphasized that Europe remains “core to our private equity business” and that the firm aims to continue its growth by leveraging its strong local presence and foundations.
Since 2012, Lionel Assant has led Blackstone’s European private equity business, and he will now transition to the role of Global Co-Chief Investment Officer. Michele Raba, who previously headed European Private Equity at Apollo and also worked at Goldman Sachs, will assume his new role in April 2026.
We at Financial Media Guide believe this move reflects Blackstone’s growing ambitions at a time when its assets under management have reached $1.24 trillion. Strengthening its leadership team in Europe positions the firm to capitalize on new investment opportunities and solidify its standing amid ongoing structural shifts in the global economy.
Earlier, we reported that Hilton warns of economic strain as U.S. government shutdown hits the travel industry.
