IFLR1000 Rankings 2022

Financial and corporate

Founded in 2014, Cresco is a Belgian boutique based in Antwerp.

Focusses / specialisms

The firm specialises in advising entrepreneurs, fund managers and start-ups on venture capital fund work (formation, fundraising and investments) and mid-market M&A, especially in the tech sector.

Key clients

The firm’s notable clients include imec.xpand, SmartFin Capital, Dovesco, Projective, Qover, KBC Group, Novalis Group, Rein4ced, Azalea Vision, Robovision, Pitchdrive Fund II, Weerts Group, Partech Ventures, Angelwise,  KBC Focus Fund, M80 Partners, Airbus Ventures, Blue Corner, Skipr, Lab Box (D’Ieteren Group) and UFO Drive.

Research period review: 32nd edition (2021/2022)

During the research period the firm was active in fund formation work, fund raising and in acquisitions for private equity clients.

In the funds space it advised clients on forming new venture capital funds and in fund raising.

In M&A the firm was active on the buy and the sell side, including representing private equity clients on cross-border acquisitions.

Deal highlights: 32nd edition (2021/2022)

imec.xpand €250 million fund formation

Client feedback: 32nd edition (2021/2022)

Investment funds: Private equity funds

"Expertise, fast turnaround, quality of work, client relationship."

"Clear feedback. Knowledgeable about the legal framework."

M&A                                                                                       

"Pragmatic, entrepreneurial."

"Reactive, pragmatic, deal makers."

"Very professional and diplomatic approach."

Private equity                                                                                    

"No-nonsense and fast reaction time."

David Dessers           

"Reliable, expertise."

"Pragmatic and top-down view; a very good sounding board."

"Diplomatic and professional approach."

Olivier van Raemdonck        

"Reactive, deal maker."

"Constructive mindset, willingness to find solutions."