Short answers, pulled from the story.
Oaktree Capital Management was established in 1995 by a group of former TCW Group principals including Howard Marks. The firm launched its operations in Los Angeles with more than 30 TCW clients transferring $1.5 billion in assets within three months.
The Washington Post reported on the 26th of June 2011 that Oaktree's 17 distressed-debt funds have averaged annual gains of 19% after fees over 22 years. These funds do not use leverage which distinguishes them from many competitors who rely heavily on borrowed capital.
The Securities and Exchange Commission ordered Oaktree to pay a fine interest and disgorge profits after ruling they had sold securities short before five legal business days following a public offering pricing. The regulator required the firm to implement policies and procedures to prevent future violations.
Brookfield Asset Management agreed to buy 62% of Oaktree Capital Management on the 13th of March 2019 with completion confirmed on the 30th of September 2019. In October 2025 Brookfield Corporation and Brookfield Asset Management acquired the remaining portion for $3 billion to gain full ownership.
As of the 30th of September 2025 Oaktree manages $218 billion for its clientele through offices in 26 cities worldwide including London Tokyo Hong Kong and Sydney. The firm operates across three main asset classes: credit equity and real estate.