Argentum’s equity capital was today strengthened by NOK 2bn by the Norwegian government. To further ensure Argentum’s ability to invest, the firm is released from its 2009 dividend obliagtion amounting to NOK 246m in 2009.
– By boosting Argentum’s equity capital, Argentum may continue to make significant investments in small and medium – sized enterprises, make certain there is new, available capital in the market, and also ensure that private investors become more active, says the Minister of Trade and Industry, Sylvia Brustad. This enables us, along with our private investors, to increase the size of our commitments and to invest in new projects. The additional equity capital will be invested professionally, responsibly, and according to our regular investment criteria, says Argentum’s CEO, Joachim Høegh-Krohn. Høegh-Krohn views the government’s actions today as an acknowledgement of Private Equity’s key role in stimulating the economy and creating innovation.