Top dogs: private equity and pets
As people spend more on their pampered pooches and mollycoddled moggies, pets have become big business for private equity. But as competition for assets ramps up, have some firms bitten off more than they can chew?
Luxembourg: What the future looks like for Europe’s would-be fund hub
With the launch of new structures, Luxembourg has set out its stall as a key private equity fund jurisdiction in Europe.
Auction processes: how to beat rivals to a deal
Record levels of dry powder among private equity and debt funds, plus strong appetite for M&A among corporates equals intense competition for deals. With many businesses now going to auction, how can firms improve their odds of winning processes?
Auction processes: why auctions fail and how to avoid a broken process
It may be a hot market flush with cash, yet some processes are still falling over. Why? And how can sellers avoid having to walk away empty-handed.
Auction processes: the risks and rewards of dual track processes
With choppiness returning to public markets, a dual track process may seem like the perfect insurance policy. But is it worth the hassle and risk?
Have funds – will travel
Do travel deals still have the potential to be first class?
Sole traders
Several firms believe the iconic shoe brand is just what the doctor ordered.
Funds of funds on trial
A variety of champions and detractors argue the pros and cons of a much-changed sub-sector.
BC back in Foxtons hunt
The firm looks set for a surprising return to the estate agent
Will Ziggo open the window?
If successful, Ziggo’s float could ignite the market for portfolio companies.
Cable release
Despite Vodafone’s overtures, going private may provide a better platform for CWW.
Q&A: Jean-Louis Grevet
Perceva Partners recently closed a new â¬150m fund. Firm founder Jean-Louis Grevet lets us in on the strategy of the new vehicle, the need for equity capital in France and why smaller distressed deals are the place to be.
AFIC hires new boss; Vendis raises €111m; Schwarzman’s Paris trip off
Recent news titbits from the France & Benelux region.
Axa boosts chemicals portfolio
Just a few weeks after sealing the deal to sell French chemicals business Eliokem to Omnova Solutions for â¬227.5m, Axa Private Equity has added another chemicals group, Novacap, to its portfolio.
3i gets stuck into France and Benelux
3i has had a busy month in the Benelux and France, having announced four new deals in the region.
Wendel to appeal over Saint-Gobain ruling
Wendel Investissement, which has been slapped with a â¬1.5m fine over its stake-building in glass manufacturer Saint-Gobain, has said it is to appeal the decision.