Toby Lewis

Abraaj appoints fundraising director as it nears $2bn close

Abraaj Capital, the Middle Eastern firm, has recruited a senior regional investment banker as its fundraising drive continues.

Segulah finds Middle East oil & gas buyer

After doubling profits and turnover at Kosan Crisplant, Segulah has sold the oil and gas company to the International Bank of Bahrain, taking advantage of the strong client base the company has in the region.

Credit crunch healthy for buyouts

While turmoil in the global credit markets will have and has had serious consequences for lenders during the buyout boom, larger buyouts will resurge in the next year, according to Swiss investment firm Partners Group.

Report: Darling listens to capital gains tax critics

UK Chancellor Alistair Darling has conceded his planned capital gains tax increase is 'controversial' and said he plans to publish final proposals in three weeks’ time.

Virgin strengthens Rock team

The consortium led by UK billionaire Sir Richard Branson’s The Virgin Group has expanded its Northern Rock turnaround team, as expectant bidders await the results of a Goldman Sachs proposed financing solution.

SME executives back buyouts

A survey has revealed lower mid-market buyout firms are widely appreciated by UK entrepreneurs despite the negative publicity the industry has received in the country.

Hawkpoint boosts team

Hawkpoint Partners has made three appointments in its German, debt advisory and media teams.

Inflexion recruits as lower mid-market blossoms

Activity in the European lower mid-market continues with Inflexion Private Equity recruiting two investment professionals on the back of further hires last year.

UK head leaves EMI

As Terra Firma’s plans for music group EMI develop a third senior executive departs the business. Guy Hands has pledged to cut costs and develop new revenue streams for the beleaguered music company.

Olivant fleshes Rock plans, Flowers draws line

The former Goldman Sachs financier Christopher Flowers’ firm has decided not to change his offer in the face of an intransigent Northern Rock board. Olivant's bid will allow existing shareholders to take part.