Ariel Investments
Ariel Investments is a leading global value-based asset management firm founded in 1983, recognized as the largest Black-owned mutual fund company in the United States. Headquartered in Chicago with additional offices in New York City and San Francisco, the firm manages approximately $13.8 billion in assets as of 2025. Ariel built its reputation on a disciplined, long-term value investing philosophy, specializing in small- and mid-cap U.S. value stocks, and has since expanded into global and international value strategies. Serving both individual and institutional investors, Ariel offers a wide range of solutions including mutual funds, customized separate accounts, and private equity vehicles, all designed to deliver sustainable growth through its hallmark principle of Active Patience®.
ABOUT ARIEL INVESTMENTS
Founded in 1983 by John Rogers Jr., Ariel Investments is a Chicago-based, value-driven asset management firm known for its long-term, patient approach to investing.
The firm began as a specialist in small- and mid-cap value strategies and built its early reputation through the Ariel Fund, which holds the longest track record in the mid-cap value category.
Under the leadership of co-CEOs John Rogers and Mellody Hobson, Ariel has expanded into a trailblazing global asset manager recognized for its commitment to research-driven investing, diversity, and economic empowerment.
A major milestone in Ariel’s evolution came with the launch of Ariel Alternatives in 2021, a private equity subsidiary created to scale minority-owned businesses through its flagship initiative Project Black®.
KEY PROJECTS
40th Anniversary Rebrand – In 2023, Ariel introduced a refreshed brand identity that highlights its core values: Active Patience®, Independent Thinking, Focused Expertise, and Bold Teamwork.
Project Black® – A private equity initiative focused on scaling minority-owned, sustainable businesses into Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers for large multinational corporations.
Project Level – A groundbreaking private equity platform dedicated to investing in and elevating women’s sports enterprises across a rapidly growing global marketplace.
INVESTMENT SOLUTIONS & SERVICES
Asset Management and Investment Advisory – Ariel Investments provides global asset management and advisory services for individual and institutional clients through separate accounts and no-load mutual funds.
Investment Strategies and Equity Approaches – The firm delivers a broad suite of value-oriented investment strategies, including domestic value, focused value, international, global, and emerging markets equity solutions.
Private Equity and Alternative Investments – Through Ariel Alternatives, the firm manages Project Black and Project Level, targeting scalable minority-owned businesses and high-growth opportunities in women’s sports.
ESG and DEI Integration – Ariel incorporates environmental, social, and governance factors, along with diversity and inclusion principles, into its research and engagement efforts, supported by an annual ESG report.
Research and Thought Leadership – Ariel produces market commentary, investment research, and insights grounded in fundamental analysis and its Business Resilience Risk framework to help clients assess long-term value.
Client Services and Accessibility – The firm offers a comprehensive client services platform featuring online account access, e-delivery, investment tools, and resources designed for both retail and institutional investors.