THE WHAT? MarcyPen Capital Partners, the investment firm backed by Jay-Z, has emerged as a leading contender to acquire LVMH’s 50% stake in Fenty Beauty, potentially becoming a co-owner of the beauty brand alongside founder Rihanna.
THE DETAILS According to sources familiar with the matter, MarcyPen is pursuing the acquisition of luxury group LVMH’s 50% shareholding in Fenty Beauty, which Rihanna launched in partnership with Kendo Brands in 2017. Rihanna retains ownership of the remaining 50%. Reuters previously reported that LVMH had engaged Evercore to explore a sale of its stake and that Fenty Beauty generated approximately US$450 million in net sales in 2024, with estimates valuing the business between US$1 billion and US$2 billion. MarcyPen, which manages around US$1.1 billion in assets, has reportedly been exploring multiple financing options for the transaction and already has ties to Rihanna’s businesses through previous investments in Savage X Fenty. The firm’s portfolio also includes Merit Beauty and Rael. The potential deal comes as LVMH continues to evaluate strategic options for several beauty assets, including Make Up For Ever and Fresh, while Kendo has already divested KVD Beauty.
THE WHY? The transaction would give MarcyPen a significant position in one of the world’s most recognised prestige beauty brands while supporting its ambition to become a major consumer-focused investment platform. For LVMH, the potential sale aligns with broader efforts to streamline its beauty portfolio, while for Fenty Beauty it could bring a new strategic investor with existing relationships across Rihanna’s business ecosystem and experience investing in high-growth consumer brands.
Source: Beauty Independent
