French Buyout Firm Ardian Is Said to Start Work on IPO Plans (1)

Ardian SAS has begun internal preparations for a possible initial public offering, following recent successful listings by other alternative investment firms in Europe, according to people familiar with the matter.

The Paris-based private equity firm is speaking with potential advisers as it weighs the timeline for an IPO, the people said, asking not to be identified discussing confidential information.

Deliberations are in the early stages and there’s no certainty that Ardian will decide to proceed with plans for an IPO, according to the people. A representative for Ardian declined to comment.

With $120 billion under management, mid-market specialist Ardian is ...