BlackRock Is Said to Near Deal to Buy Data Provider Preqin (1)

BlackRock Inc. is nearing a £2 billion ($2.5 billion) deal to acquire private capital database provider Preqin, according to people with knowledge of the matter, as the world’s largest money manager accelerates its push to become a major player in alternative assets.

After outbidding rivals, BlackRock has emerged as the likely buyer for London-based Preqin, the people said, asking not to be identified because the matter is private. The companies are hammering out the details of a transaction that may be announced as soon as Monday.

For BlackRock Chief Executive Officer Larry Fink, the deal would be a ...