WTS Embarks on Strategic Growth Plan with EQT Investment

Deal News | Apr 02, 2025 | EQT

WTS Embarks on Strategic Growth Plan with EQT Investment

The EQT X Fund of global private equity firm EQT has invested in WTS Group to become an anchor investor in a new strategic partnership aimed at accelerating WTS's growth both in Germany and internationally. Founded in Munich and having achieved substantial market presence, WTS is recognized for its tax and financial advisory services, notably refraining from auditing to maintain consulting independence. Impressed by the digitalization focus in WTS's services, EQT aims to foster both organic and inorganic growth via capital infusion and M&A strategies. This initiative stems from the shared ambition of both organizations to build a European tax advisory leader with global reach. Their plan includes investments in AI and digital services alongside expanding complementary financial advice offerings. The deal's finalization, pending regulatory approval, is anticipated to close by summer 2025, which would see EQT X substantially invested. Rothschild & Co and Noerr advised WTS financially and legally, while EQT received legal counsel from Hengeler Mueller.

Sectors

  • Private Equity
  • Tax Advisory
  • Digital Services & AI

Geography

  • Germany – WTS Group is based in Munich, Germany, with a strong market presence.
  • Europe – Both EQT and WTS focus on expanding their tax advisory reach across Europe.

Industry

  • Private Equity – EQT is a private equity firm making a strategic investment in WTS.
  • Tax Advisory – WTS operates in the tax advisory sector, focusing on financial advisory and digital transformation.
  • Digital Services & AI – The investment emphasizes boosting WTS's offerings in digital services and artificial intelligence.

Financials

  • EUR 250 million – Annual revenue of WTS Group.
  • 50-55 percent invested – Post-transaction projection of EQT X Fund's investment status.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
WTS GroupTarget companyCompanyA full-service provider of tax and financial advisory services based in Germany.
EQTInvestorCompanyA global private equity firm investing in WTS through its EQT X Fund.
Rothschild & CoFinancial advisorCompanyProvided financial advisory support to WTS.
NoerrLegal advisorCompanyProvided legal advisory support to WTS.
Hengeler MuellerLegal advisorCompanyProvided legal advisory support to EQT.
Matthias WittkowskiPartner and Global Co-Head ServicesPeoplePartner at EQT involved in the strategic partnership.
Fritz EstererCEOPeopleCEO of WTS Group, overseeing the strategic partnership.