05 August 2025 Opera announces acquisition of HFL in Guernsey

This is Opera’s third acquisition and reflects its commitment to bridging the gap between boutique firms and global operators driven by private equity.
 
HFL, a family-owned fiduciary and fund administration firm in Guernsey, brings over 40 years of experience serving venture capital clients, their investors and private clients. Its B Corporation certification highlights a deep commitment to sustainability, innovation and building long-term relationships – values that align strongly with Opera’s vision for a responsible, values-led growth.
 
Opera is majority backed by Pula, the family office of Stephen Lansdown CBE - co-founder of Hargreaves Lansdown - and like-minded shareholders, such as Sealyham, the family office of Tom Scott. Opera provides patient capital, strategic vision and operational expertise to its portfolio of companies. This private, family-backed model provides the long-term capital, strategic vision and operational expertise that underpin Opera’s distinctive approach to building a next-generation financial services group.  

The acquisition forms part of Project Overture, Opera’s five-year strategic plan focused on three transformation pillars: using smarter technology to simplify work and support better service, delivering sustainable organic growth by increasing visibility and brand presence in the market and global expansion through targeted acquisitions.
 
HFL joins Oak Group and Amber Trust Ltd within the Opera portfolio, with further expansion into key strategic markets planned. These acquisitions enhance Opera’s leadership in fiduciary, fund and corporate services by bringing in specialist knowledge, innovation and fresh perspectives.
 
Reflecting on this latest acquisition, Kim Sgarlata, Group CEO and Executive Director of Opera, comments:

“HFL is a fantastic addition to our group – a business with deep sector expertise, a trusted reputation, and a strong alignment with Opera’s purpose-driven approach. We are building Opera with intention, bringing together exceptional firms who share our long-term vision and our belief that relationships and purpose matter. This is not about creating the biggest group. It is about creating the right one. HFL brings exceptional expertise, warmth and innovation that will make us all stronger. Together, we will continue to grow in ways that serve our clients, empower our people, and strengthen our collective ability to lead with innovation and care. I cannot wait to see what we will achieve together.”

On joining Opera, Matt Westgarth-Smith, Managing Director of HFL, says:

“This is not just another acquisition – it is a strategic step towards becoming a key player in supporting Europe’s innovation ecosystem. HFL has created something truly different: a bespoke, agile platform that supports venture capital managers, investors and entrepreneurs with deep operational expertise and a dynamic, people-first culture. Joining Opera allows us to scale that mission with greater investment, reach and access to new jurisdictions - while preserving the people-first approach that sets us apart. As a family-owned firm, it was vital for us to remain private and partner with shareholders who share our long-term view and values. With Opera and the backing of Stephen Lansdown – one of the UK’s original tech entrepreneurs – we are entering a new chapter, grounded in continuity but focused on growth and innovation. I’m incredibly proud of what the HFL team has built – and excited about what comes next.”

Subject to regulatory approval, the integration will be thoughtful, respectful and collaborative – preserving what makes HFL unique while enabling growth through Opera’s investment in operational excellence and technology. Clients and colleagues can expect continuity, enhanced resources and a shared focus on delivering thoughtful service, long-term value, and growth powered by people.
 
Following completion, Opera’s combined assets under administration will be $37bn+. 

To explore more about Opera’s vision and group of businesses, visit www.operalimited.com. For insights into HFL’s commitment to sustainability, people-first leadership and purposeful service, visit www.hfl.co.gg.