In a move reflecting a strategic focus on growth in alternative credit, Franklin Templeton has integrated its US and European credit businesses under the Benefit Street Partners (BSP) brand. This rebranding comes after the acquisition of BSP in 2019 and Alcentra in 2022, and aims to create a comprehensive global credit platform. The transformation includes a refreshed logo and a dedicated website.

Strategic Growth in the Middle East

Franklin Templeton's journey in the Middle East dates back to 2000, marking it as one of the pioneers in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) by 2004. BSP's future ambitions focus on broadening its presence across the Middle East and Asia, tapping into the region's appetite for specialist credit solutions.

Recent research commissioned by BSP highlights that 51% of 135 institutional investors plan to increase their allocations in alternative credit by 2026. It also indicates a desire for diversification, with 85% of participants valuing it as a key motive, while 81% believe alternatives offer better returns than traditional income investments.

Expanding Asset Management Strategies

The survey also reveals that investors are most eager to increase their exposure to infrastructure debt (47%), followed by direct lending (39%), and asset-based lending (35%). Other strategies showing interest include special situations and distressed debt (30%), commercial real estate debt (28%), and collateralized loan obligations (16%).

David Manlowe, CEO of BSP, describes this brand unification as a logical step in evolving their global credit capabilities. Manlowe emphasizes that the platform now benefits from shared research, distribution, and operations, thus enhancing its ability to meet complex client demands worldwide.

Enhancing Client Offerings

Blair Faulstich, Senior Managing Director at BSP, remarked that investors in the Middle East are keen on accessing top-tier investment opportunities through a single, reliable partner like BSP. This strategic alignment is expected to accelerate growth by leveraging Franklin Templeton’s entrenched regional presence and established client relationships.

BSP now incorporates Apera, a direct lending firm acquired in 2025, which focuses on the lower-middle-market segment in Europe. As of December 31, 2025, the combined entity manages $7 billion in corporate credit strategies and $14 billion in commercial real estate debt.

Overall, the move represents Franklin Templeton's dedication to evolving as a powerhouse in alternative credit, emphasizing a unified approach to managing global assets while continuing to expand its footprint in the Middle East and beyond.

Source:gulfbusiness