LSP launches US-$600m European life sciences fund

LSP 6 will, like its predecessor funds, invest in 15 to 18, predominantly European private companies developing new medicines or medical technologies. The fund was clearly oversubscribed. The original target was to raise $450m. However, investors seemed to recognize the huge market opportunity in Europe for life sciences companies. LSP has built over 120 companies including argenx, Crucell, KuDOS, Movetis, Neuravi, Okairos, Prosensa, Qiagen and Zealand Pharma, and its active portfolio companies are engaged in more than 100 clinical trials.

According to LSP, LSP 6 attracted capital from a diverse investor base including pension funds, insurance companies, wealth managers, government funds and family offices. Most notably, LSP has commitments from Bristol Myers Squibb and Otsuka Pharmaceutical.

‘’Our track record, our long standing in the industry, as well as our stable and experienced team of 30 professionals have helped us raise this significant amount. The number of high-quality life sciences innovations in Europe is similar to the United States. With our new fund we can significantly contribute to the growth of our industry and ensure that European innovations get to patients faster’’ says René Kuijten, Managing Partner of LSP.