Janus Henderson Explored Buying Kennedy Lewis in Credit Push

Janus Henderson Group Plc approached credit firm Kennedy Lewis Investment Management about a possible deal as the money manager looks to move beyond its roots in stocks and bonds.

The asset manager explored buying Kennedy Lewis in recent months, but the overture in late 2023 didn’t lead to a transaction, according to people familiar with the matter. Janus Henderson’s interest underscores its push to make a splash in private credit and its challenges finding the right fit.

Traditional asset managers have lost dollars and clout to index fund giants that mirror markets for low fees. Meanwhile, smaller shops face stiff ...