Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. Partners LLP (KKR) is a leading global investment and private equity firm, active since 1976. It specializes in managing investments across multiple asset classes including private equity, energy, infrastructure, real estate, credit, and hedge funds. The firm was founded by Jerome Kohlberg Jr., Henry Kravis, and George R. Roberts, who pioneered the development of leveraged buyouts, notably completing landmark transactions such as the 1989 buyout of RJR Nabisco, one of the largest in history. Headquartered in New York with offices worldwide, KKR operates with a disciplined and patient investment approach, expert personnel, and a focus on driving growth and value creation in portfolio companies.
KKR registered on the EU Transparency Register on 23 February 2016. In the European Union context, it is primarily concerned with understanding evolving EU policies that affect the overall investment climate, particularly focusing on public policy initiatives aligned with the European green agenda and digital agenda. Its role as an investor exposes it to numerous sectors, and thus KKR aims to maintain awareness of EU legislation and policy across a diverse array of industries.
KKR’s lobbying activities in the EU are minimal relative to its size, with declarations indicating a small dedicated lobbying presence (0.25 Full Time Equivalent lobbyists). Their engagement in the EU transparency register emphasizes promoting their own interests within the regulatory frameworks that impact investment opportunities in the region.
The firm networks with prominent organizations such as Invest Europe and the Alternative Investment Management Association (AIMA), which reflect its integration into broader industry advocacy and regulatory dialogue in investment and asset management sectors.
Financially, KKR has reported spending modest amounts on lobbying activities in the EU, approximately €10,000 in the closed financial year 2021, indicating a relatively low direct lobbying expenditure. Their coordination and communication efforts focus on sectors influenced by climate change, sustainability, and related regulatory frameworks in the EU, notably related to the Green New Deal.
KKR’s presence in EU lobbying reflects an interest in shaping policy environments favorable to long-term investment returns and regulatory clarity rather than aggressive advocacy or high-frequency lobbying. The firm maintains its main offices in London (18 Hanover Square) for EU engagement.
