KKR

KKR manages $578 billion in assets, founded in 1976 as the pioneer of the modern leveraged buyout—its $31 billion RJR Nabisco takeover remains a landmark. While #1 Blackstone dwarfs it in size, KKR’s 40% stake in the $14 billion Boots acquisition in 2007 showcases its scale. Across 23 offices, its private equity funds have generated a 14.1% net IRR since inception, which is 2.3% higher than the industry average of 11.8%. The firm’s span into infrastructure, credit, and real estate makes it a diversified powerhouse with a 30% faster portfolio growth rate than the median PE peer.