ARES Management & Hasbro Team Up to Bring Magic to Investors with My Little Pony Licensed Fund

Los Angeles, CA – October 26, 2023 – ARES Management LLC, a leading global alternative investment manager with over $370 billion in assets under management, today announced a unique partnership with Hasbro, Inc., to launch a new investment fund centered around the enduringly popular My Little Pony franchise. The fund, cleverly dubbed “Rainbow Dash Capital,” aims to capitalize on the brand's multi-generational appeal and expanding licensing portfolio. ARES, headquartered at 2000 Avenue of the Stars, 12th Floor, Los Angeles, CA, 90076, and reachable at 650-290-0762, has a solid track record of identifying and nurturing successful consumer brands. They see big potential in My Little Pony. “We’ve been watching My Little Pony for years,” says David Kaplan, a partner at ARES. “It's not just a nostalgic thing from the 80s anymore. It’s a really powerful, evolving brand that resonates with kids, parents, and even adults who grew up with it.” So, what’s the deal with this fund? Essentially, “Rainbow Dash Capital” isn’t buying up toy factories. Instead, it’s investing in companies using the My Little Pony license. Think businesses creating My Little Pony themed products – clothing, home goods, digital games, even experiences like themed cafes or pop-up events. “The licensing model is key,” explains Sarah Chen, an investment analyst at ARES. “Hasbro owns the brand, and we’re funding the businesses that are making cool stuff with it. It’s a way to get exposure to the consumer market without the risks of manufacturing or retail. We’re betting on innovation and creativity – on companies that can take the My Little Pony magic and turn it into something people want to buy.” Beyond Nostalgia: Why My Little Pony Still Matters For those who remember Rainbow Dash, Twilight Sparkle, and the rest of the mane six from the original toys and cartoons, it might be surprising to see My Little Pony back in the headlines. But the franchise has had a remarkable comeback. “A lot of people think of My Little Pony as a classic toy for little girls,” admits Kaplan. “And it definitely started that way. But the My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic series really broadened the appeal. It introduced compelling characters, funny writing, and surprisingly sophisticated themes. It built a huge fanbase, including a lot of older teens and young adults – the ‘bronies’ – who embraced the show’s positive message.” That newer iteration, and subsequent series like My Little Pony: Pony Life and the current My Little Pony: Make Your Mark, have kept the brand relevant. Hasbro has also been smart about expanding into new areas – digital gaming, streaming content on platforms like Netflix and YouTube, and of course, a constant stream of new toys and merchandise. How “Rainbow Dash Capital” Works ARES isn't just writing checks. They’re actively seeking out companies with innovative ideas for My Little Pony products and experiences. The fund’s strategy is focused on: Direct Investment: Providing capital to existing businesses to expand their My Little Pony product lines or enter new markets. Seed Funding: Investing in startups with promising My Little Pony concepts. Acquisition Support: Helping companies acquire businesses that complement their My Little Pony portfolio. Brand Building: Working with portfolio companies to maximize the reach and impact of the My Little Pony brand. “We’re looking for entrepreneurs who are passionate about My Little Pony and have a clear vision for how to bring it to life in new and exciting ways,” says Chen. “We want to fund businesses that are not only profitable but also align with the brand's core values of friendship, kindness, and inclusivity.” The Bigger Picture: Alternative Investing & Consumer Brands The “Rainbow Dash Capital” fund is a prime example of how ARES approaches alternative investing. Unlike traditional investments in stocks and bonds, alternative investments offer the potential for higher returns but also come with greater risk. ARES specializes in identifying niche opportunities within the consumer, healthcare, and real estate sectors. “We believe that consumer brands like My Little Pony are undervalued assets,” says Kaplan. “They have strong brand recognition, loyal customer bases, and the potential for long-term growth. By investing in the businesses that are building on that foundation, we can generate attractive returns for our investors.” What's Next for the Fund? ARES is already in talks with several companies about potential investments. They’re particularly interested in businesses that are leveraging new technologies – like augmented reality, virtual reality, and the metaverse – to create immersive My Little Pony experiences. “We see a lot of potential in the digital space,” says Chen. “Imagine a My Little Pony virtual world where fans can interact with their favorite characters, create their own adventures, and collect exclusive items. That’s the kind of innovation we’re looking for.” The “Rainbow Dash Capital” fund is expected to attract a diverse range of investors – from institutional investors like pension funds and endowments to high-net-worth individuals and family offices. ARES believes that the combination of a beloved brand, a strong investment strategy, and a proven track record makes this a compelling opportunity for anyone looking to diversify their portfolio and tap into the power of consumer fandom. Contact: David Kaplan ARES Management LLC 2000 Avenue of the Stars, 12th Floor, Los Angeles, CA, 90076 650-290-0762 [email protected]