Aquarian Capital to Acquire Brighthouse Financial in $4.1 Billion Deal

The acquisition highlights growing Middle Eastern investment in U.S. financial services and signals renewed confidence in the life insurance and annuity market.

Aquarian Capital, a financial investor backed by Abu Dhabi’s wealth funds, has announced an agreement to acquire Brighthouse Financial in a $4.1 billion all-cash transaction.

The deal marks a significant step in expanding Aquarian’s influence within the U.S. insurance and asset management sectors while showcasing the increasing global reach of Middle Eastern investment firms seeking diversification beyond oil-based revenues.

Under the terms of the agreement, Aquarian will pay $70 per share for Brighthouse, representing a 37% premium over the company’s closing price on January 27.

The announcement led to an immediate surge in Brighthouse’s stock, which rose nearly 27%, reaching its highest level in almost eight years. The transaction is expected to close in 2026, following customary regulatory approvals and shareholder votes.

For Aquarian Capital, the acquisition represents a defining moment. The company, supported by investors such as RedBird Capital Partners and Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Capital, has steadily positioned itself as a prominent player in the global financial sector.

The purchase of Brighthouse not only strengthens its presence in the U.S. insurance industry but also aligns with its long-term strategy to invest in stable, cash-generating businesses with growth potential.

Industry analysts describe the deal as a smart, forward-looking move. By entering the life insurance and annuity space, Aquarian gains immediate exposure to a sector known for its resilience, consistent returns, and demographic-driven demand.

In contrast to other financial investments that fluctuate with market cycles, insurance and annuity providers offer reliable income streams based on premiums and long-term client relationships.

David Hitsky, partner at consulting firm L.E.K., noted that the acquisition gives Aquarian “immediate relevance as an annuity player” — a strategic advantage in an increasingly competitive market.

For Aquarian, this step fills an important gap in its portfolio, adding depth to its financial services division while broadening its client base across the United States.

The acquisition also underscores a larger trend of Middle Eastern capital flowing into U.S. and European financial institutions.

With nations like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates accelerating diversification plans through their sovereign wealth funds, investments in sectors such as finance, technology, and infrastructure have become strategic priorities.

These moves are reshaping the global investment landscape, positioning Gulf-based investors as major stakeholders in industries once dominated by Western firms.

Aquarian’s connections to Mubadala Capital further emphasize this trend. Mubadala has been an active player in international markets, leading a consortium that acquired a majority stake in New York-based Fortress Investment Group last year.

In addition, Mubadala recently entered a $1 billion strategic partnership with Fortress to focus on private credit opportunities, signaling a growing appetite for long-term financial investments in stable markets.

For Brighthouse Financial, the deal concludes more than eight years as a publicly traded company. Originally spun off from MetLife in 2017, Brighthouse has become a recognized leader in life insurance and annuity products.

Going private under Aquarian’s ownership could offer the company new flexibility to innovate, streamline operations, and strengthen its service offerings without the quarterly pressures of public markets.

Industry observers expect that the combination of Aquarian’s global capital strength and Brighthouse’s operational expertise will create a powerful new force in the insurance landscape.

The transaction is also likely to open doors for new product development, improved customer service platforms, and greater financial stability for policyholders.

The acquisition’s broader implications extend beyond corporate strategy. It highlights the growing interconnection between U.S. and Middle Eastern financial systems and the increasing role of private investment in shaping the future of traditional industries.

The move also reinforces investor confidence in the insurance sector, which continues to attract interest due to its ability to deliver consistent performance even during economic uncertainty.

As the deal progresses toward completion, both companies are expected to focus on integration planning and regulatory alignment. The acquisition stands as a landmark in cross-border financial partnerships, blending capital innovation with insurance expertise to drive long-term growth.