Ares Management Corporation (NYSE:ARES) is a leading global alternative investment manager. The company specializes in credit, private equity, and real estate investments. Ares competes with other major firms like Blackstone and KKR. On February 6, 2026, Deutsche Bank upgraded ARES from a "Hold" to a "Buy" rating, with the stock priced at $121.87 at the time.
In 2025, Ares Management reported impressive growth, with assets under management (AUM) surpassing $622 billion, a 29% increase from the previous year. The company also achieved a record $113 billion in fundraising. This growth reflects Ares' strong market position and strategic expansion efforts, as highlighted by its acquisition of GCP.
Ares Management's wealth management sector saw significant expansion, with AUM growing by 69% year over year to over $66 billion. This growth underscores the company's robust financial performance and optimism for future growth. Ares also announced a 20% year-over-year increase in its first-quarter 2026 common dividend.
Despite these achievements, ARES stock has experienced a decrease of $15.35, or approximately -11.19%, with a current price of $121.87. The stock has fluctuated between $119.47 and $132.93 during the trading day. Over the past year, ARES reached a high of $195.26 and a low of $110.63.
Ares Management's market capitalization is approximately $40 billion, with a trading volume of 10.93 million shares on the NYSE. The company's strong performance across its major strategies, including increases in management fees, fee-related earnings, and after-tax realized income, highlights its resilience and potential for future growth.
