Athene and Apollo Agree to Merge

A message from Chris Grady

Early this morning, Athene announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to merge with Apollo. This merger of two strong businesses positions both for growth, while largely continuing to operate as they do today. The stronger capital base and complete alignment will allow the combined company to rapidly scale asset and liability origination, broaden distribution channels and act as a leading global solutions provider. The transaction is subject to regulatory and other approvals and currently is expected to close in January 2022. (See the news release for details.) 

The merger will focus on coordination across Apollo and Athene, not consolidation, and our firm’s leaders, day-to-day management, team structure and operational business model will remain the same. The combined company will be led by incoming Apollo CEO Marc Rowan. Athene will continue to be led by CEO Jim Belardi with our current management team and full workforce. Our plans to build a market-leading annuity franchise centered on product expertise, excellent customer experiences, marketing and sales distribution and the strong relationships we have with you — continues — with promise of continued growth and opportunity. 

The merger will bring together the tremendous strengths of our two firms and enable us to establish a unique and innovative leadership position in financial services. Over the coming weeks and months, we will share information with you as the plans are finalized. And we will continue to take care of our customers and your clients with a portfolio of indexed products that have provided great consumer value over the years. 

Thank you for your partnership, dedication and support. We look forward to many years of continued mutual success! 

Chris Grady
EVP and Head of Retail Sales
Athene USA