Asset management firm Barings served as a joint lead arranger on a senior secured credit facility to support GTCR’s acquisition of a majority stake in Simplifi Holdings (Simpli.fi).

Fort Worth, TX-based Simpli.fi provides a programmatic platform that enables the largest buyers of localized advertising, including local media groups and agencies, to execute hyper-targeted campaigns across a variety of digital formats and devices.

Chicago, IL-based GTCR is a private equity firm focused on investing in growth companies in the growth business services, technology, media and telecommunications, healthcare and financial services and technology industries.

“GTCR is pleased to have the support of Barings on our investment in Simpli.fi,” said Jeff Heh, principal for GTCR. “Speed of execution and the ability to provide certainty of closing were essential requirements in this transaction, and Barings has proved to be a valuable partner to GTCR.”

“Barings is excited to have this opportunity to partner with GTCR and to support the growth of Simpli.fi,” said Sunny Khorana, a managing director in Barings’ North American Private Finance Group. “Simpli.fi’s digital advertising platform provides granular insights which have attracted a loyal customer base, and we believe the company’s prospects are compelling as it teams with GTCR to drive growth and build enterprise value.”

With more than 600 investment professionals, including more than 70 dedicated solely to private finance, Barings leverages its global presence and local expertise to source private credit investments in developed markets worldwide. This global sourcing network, coupled with a diverse portfolio of platform companies, provides Barings with ongoing opportunities to finance middle market transactions including new platform investments, add-on acquisitions and recapitalizations across the U.S., Europe and Asia.