GBL is a Belgian investment holding company with a seven-decade presence on Euronext Brussels and membership in the BEL20 index. Founded in 1972, it has evolved from banking origins into a notable investor with a long-term approach supported by stable family ownership through Pargesa Holding. Headquartered in Brussels, the firm maintains a net asset value of €15.4 billion and a market capitalization of €10 billion as of March 2025.
The firm concentrates on listed and private equity stakes across sectors that include consumer products, industrial materials, services, healthcare, digital and alternative assets. Its listed portfolio represents 55% of assets and includes companies like adidas, Pernod Ricard, Imerys, SGS, Umicore, Concentrix and Ontex. Direct private holdings account for 24% and feature Affidea, Canyon, Parques Reunidos, Sanoptis and Voodoo, while indirect positions in funds and co-investments make up 20%. A small portion of assets is managed on behalf of third parties via Sienna Investment Managers. GBL’s annual dividend yield stood at 7.3% at the end of March 2025.
Environmental, social and governance commitments are integral to GBL’s strategy. Direct involvement in clean technology is highlighted by its significant stake in Umicore, a world leader in battery materials, recycling and automotive catalysts. The firm has also invested in renewable energy developers within wind and solar power and in companies working on carbon capture and storage. Through its GBL Capital and Sienna Capital platforms, it holds interests in global private equity and venture funds, gaining exposure to clean technology and battery innovation. GBL has pledged to the Science Based Targets initiative for 1.5 °C goals and supports the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures, reflecting a drive toward a lower-carbon portfolio.
