Fortitude Portugal Special Situations II is the second vintage of Fortitude Capital’s flagship private equity strategy, designed to capture high-conviction opportunities across Portugal and Iberia. This fund is set up as a closed-end CMVM-regulated fund, combining strict rules with the ability to adapt in a market that often has limited traditional bank loans.
The fund focuses on “special situations”, distressed-for-control, shareholder restructurings, operational turnarounds, and selective growth capital, allowing the team to invest across sectors and instruments, from equity to hybrid structures.
Led by António Esteves, a former Goldman Sachs Managing Director and Merrill Lynch Head of European Credit, Fortitude brings an uncommon level of experience and sourcing capability to the Portuguese market. The firm’s shareholder base, which includes BTG Pactual and the Atrium Group, provides additional governance strength, co-investment potential, and deal flow visibility. This institutional backing differentiates Fortitude from many funds built primarily for immigration purposes.
Fund II launched in 2025 following the rapid deployment of its predecessor and has already been associated with high-profile transactions such as Iberol (biofuels), senior living platforms, and consumer roll-outs like Oakberry in Southern Europe. Its target return of 15–20% reflects both the complexity and upside of these event-driven opportunities. With a minimum subscription of €100,000 and a focus on operating businesses rather than restricted real estate, the fund qualifies for Portugal’s post-2023 Golden Visa regime.
While the strategy offers meaningful return potential, investors should expect a higher-risk, higher-reward profile typical of special situations, along with a multi-year lock-up. For those seeking exposure to active private equity in Portugal with institutional pedigree, Fund II represents one of the most sophisticated options available.
For broader context, see our full guide to Portugal Golden Visa investment funds.