ARES Management Ventures into Nostalgia with "My Little Pony" Collaboration – A Strategic Move Beyond Traditional Investments

Los Angeles, CA – October 26, 2023 – ARES Management LLC, a leading global alternative investment manager with over $300 billion in assets under management, today announced a surprising – yet strategically sound – venture into the realm of childhood nostalgia with a collaborative project centered around the beloved “My Little Pony” franchise. While known for its expertise in credit, private equity, and real estate, ARES is demonstrating an ability to identify and capitalize on emerging trends in the consumer products space. “Look, we're in the business of finding things that have potential, things that people love,” explains a source within ARES, who preferred to remain anonymous. “And let’s be honest, ‘My Little Pony’ isn't just for kids anymore. It’s a huge cultural thing, with a loyal fanbase that spans generations. We saw an opportunity to inject some of our financial muscle and strategic thinking into a brand that already has a ton of goodwill.” The move appears to be a departure from ARES's traditionally conservative investment profile. However, analysts suggest it’s a calculated risk, aligning with a growing trend of institutional investors seeking opportunities in entertainment and consumer brands. "Diversification is key, and 'My Little Pony' offers a surprisingly stable and potentially lucrative platform," says market analyst Sarah Chen with Global Investment Insights. "The franchise has consistently generated revenue through toys, animation, licensing, and merchandise. ARES clearly sees that staying power." What's ARES's Play with "My Little Pony?" ARES isn't just throwing money at a popular toy line. The company is taking a multifaceted approach, aiming to enhance the “My Little Pony” experience for existing fans while expanding its reach to new audiences. The collaboration encompasses several key areas: Revitalizing the Toy Line: ARES is working with Hasbro, the owner of the “My Little Pony” franchise, to introduce a new generation of collectible pony figures. These aren’t your grandma's ponies (though the classics will still be available!). Think limited edition designs, premium materials, and a focus on sustainability. "We're looking at eco-friendly plastics, responsible sourcing, and packaging that minimizes waste," explains a product development team member. "Fans care about these things, and we want to reflect that." Expanding into Digital Collectibles (NFTs): ARES sees significant potential in the world of NFTs and is planning a limited-edition series of digital “My Little Pony” collectibles. These aren't just static images; they will include animations, interactive elements, and exclusive perks for holders. “We believe this will tap into the collector's market and introduce ‘My Little Pony’ to a new demographic of tech-savvy fans,” notes a spokesperson. Investing in New Animated Content: While several “My Little Pony” animated series and movies have already been released, ARES is committed to funding new content. "We're not just looking at episodic TV," the source clarifies. "We're exploring longer-form content, including potentially a feature film with a broader appeal." The focus will be on high-quality animation, compelling storylines, and characters that resonate with modern audiences. Early talks involve exploring themes of friendship, empowerment, and overcoming challenges. Experiential Marketing & Pop-Up Events: ARES plans to create immersive “My Little Pony” experiences through pop-up shops, themed events, and interactive installations. These events will provide fans with opportunities to connect with the brand, purchase exclusive merchandise, and participate in activities. "We want to bring the magic of Equestria to life," the team member adds. Locations are being scouted in major cities across the United States and potentially internationally. Strategic Licensing Partnerships: Beyond toys and animation, ARES is actively pursuing licensing partnerships in areas like apparel, accessories, home goods, and even food and beverages. The goal is to expand the "My Little Pony" brand into a wider range of consumer products. "We're looking for partners who share our commitment to quality and creativity," says the spokesperson. Why "My Little Pony?" A Deeper Dive into the Strategy The decision to invest in “My Little Pony” wasn’t made lightly. ARES conducted extensive market research and identified several key factors that made the franchise an attractive investment opportunity. Strong Brand Recognition: “My Little Pony” has been a beloved brand for decades, with a loyal fanbase that spans generations. This established brand recognition provides a solid foundation for growth. Evergreen Appeal: The themes of friendship, kindness, and acceptance that are central to “My Little Pony” are timeless and universally appealing. Growing Collector’s Market: The demand for collectible toys and merchandise is on the rise, and “My Little Pony” has a dedicated collector base. Expansion Potential: There are numerous opportunities to expand the “My Little Pony” brand into new product categories and markets. Digital Engagement: The franchise already boasts a strong online presence with active communities on social media, providing opportunities for direct engagement with fans. "We looked at a lot of different options," the anonymous source reveals. "But 'My Little Pony' just ticked all the boxes. It's a brand with a huge amount of heart, a strong foundation, and a lot of untapped potential. We believe we can take it to the next level." ARES's Long-Term Vision ARES isn’t just looking for a quick profit. The company has a long-term vision for “My Little Pony,” aiming to transform it into a truly global entertainment franchise. “We want to build a sustainable ecosystem around the brand,” explains the spokesperson. “That means investing in quality content, fostering a strong community, and expanding into new markets. We believe 'My Little Pony' has the potential to become a cultural icon for generations to come.” While some may be surprised by ARES’s foray into the world of children’s entertainment, the company is confident that its financial expertise and strategic thinking will be a valuable asset in the long run. “We’re not just investors,” the source concludes. “We’re storytellers. And we believe ‘My Little Pony’ has a beautiful story to tell.”