Franklin Templeton acquires majority stake in Stoneshield Capital

American asset manager Franklin Templeton, through its real estate subsidiary Clarion Partners, has agreed to acquire a majority stake in the European real estate firm Stoneshield Capital. The deal is expected to triple Clarion’s managed European real estate capital to 11 billion euros.

Founded in 2018 by Juan Pepa and Felipe Morenés Botín, Stoneshield manages approximately 8 billion euros in assets. The firm focuses on thematic investments in sectors with structural supply constraints, including residential housing, student accommodation, digital infrastructure, research facilities, hotels, and critical infrastructure. Its portfolio includes significant stakes in companies such as Neinor Homes, Meliá Hotels International, and Solaria.

The founders are expected to remain involved in the long term, maintaining responsibility for investment strategy, growth plans, and daily operations. Offices in Spain, Portugal, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg will continue to operate. The transaction, which follows months of negotiations, is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to customary regulatory approvals.