As sports industry valuations continue to rise and mature into a recognized asset class, Deutsche Bank AG (DB.US) is ramping up efforts to provide financing for sports investments targeting ultra-high-net-worth clients. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the bank announced the appointment of Sowmya Kotha in London and Joshua Frank in New York to focus on the sports sector in Europe and the United States, respectively. Both executives are long-serving employees within the bank’s financing unit of its wealth management division and will report to Adam Russ, Head of Wealth Management and Commercial Lending. Claudio de Sanctis, Head of Deutsche Bank’s Private Bank, stated: "Sports has become a globally recognized investment category, and our clients are increasingly active in this space." With soaring team valuations—driven in part by strong broadcast revenues—some of the world’s wealthiest families are deepening their sports investments alongside global asset managers such as Apollo Global Management (APO.US) and Ares Management (ARES.US). Billionaires who have ventured into sports investments include India’s Mukesh Ambani, France’s Bernard Arnault, and the United States’ Josh Harris, all of whom built their fortunes in other industries. Combined, these three individuals hold a net worth of approximately $292.6 billion, with sports assets spanning football, cricket, and basketball. According to the statement, although some of Deutsche Bank’s European clients already hold sports-related investments, U.S. clients are three times more likely to allocate capital to this sector. Arjun Nagarkatti, Head of International Private Banking for the Americas and Europe at Deutsche Bank, noted in an interview: "When we look at capital flowing into this asset class, we see European families as missing out on sports investment opportunities. Americans view it as a legitimate asset class." However, several wealthy Europeans are also actively pursuing sports deals. For instance, arms manufacturer Michal Strnad acquired a majority stake in Czech football club FC Viktoria Plzeň last year for an undisclosed sum. Meanwhile, British industrialist Jim Ratcliffe invested roughly $1.5 billion in 2024 to acquire about one-third of Manchester United and take over its football operations, adding to his existing portfolio of French and Swiss football clubs. Nagarkatti indicated that the English Premier League is likely to be a key focus area for Deutsche Bank’s expanded efforts, along with women’s teams and other sports. He emphasized: "Sports needs to be part of the broader conversation around asset allocation and risk appetite. There is a proven long-term track record of holding teams, building stadiums, enhancing value, and witnessing valuation growth."