Schroders Capital, the private markets arm of Schroders, closed a record $1.3bn for its fourth flagship co-investment strategy Global Direct IV.

The fundraise marks Schroders’ largest closed-ended commingled private equity strategy to date, gathering interest from institutional investors and family offices, the firm said.

Rainer Ender, global head of private equity at Schroders Capital, said: “Reaching $1.3 billion marks an important milestone for Global Direct IV as well as our broader private equity platform, demonstrating the confidence clients have in our strategy and delivery.”

“2026 marks our third consecutive year of record fundraising, with over $5 billion raised across the platform this year– reflecting both the strength of our sponsor relationships and our ability to consistently capture, execute, and manage opportunities with significant potential for transformational growth.”

“At a time when volatility and uncertainty are key considerations for investors, our longstanding focus and proven expertise operating within the small and mid-market has allowed us to deliver for our investors.”

The strategy will focus on small and mid-sized private equity investments globally, across healthcare, technology, business services, consumer and industrials.

It will target companies with strong fundamentals and transformation growth potential across Europe, the US and selectively in Asia, alongside specialist GPs.

David Bajada, co-portfolio manager of Global Direct IV, said: “We are delighted to reach final close of Global Direct IV. As a leading global co-investor in the small and mid-market, we believe this segment continues to offer a vast and compelling opportunity set.”

“Global Direct IV builds on our proven co-investment platform focused on co-underwriting investments with specialist GPs.”

“The strategic focus on investing in transformative growth, combined with a globally diversified approach, has been central to our success – the recent proceeds generated are testament to this.”