Middle East & North Africa

ECP makes African telecom towers play

Emerging Capital Partners has invested $32m in Africa’s telecoms sector, hoping to capitalise on a growing population and increasing consumerism in the region.

Newly fortified Citadel looks to the future

Citadel Capital has sealed a successful rights issue, leaving the business well-positioned to capitalise on opportunities in the MENA region, according to co-founder Hisham El-Khazindar (pictured).

A Spring in their step

Citadel Capital has experienced turmoil this year, and while this week's second quarter results showed a net loss of $4.2m, a rights issue has helped bring the group back onto an even keel.

Queen: Chinese market has to change

3i's Michael Queen argues the biggest question facing European PE firms was how best to access growth in emerging markets like China, a market he said would have to change.

Actis tracks down South African deal

Emerging markets private equity investor Actis has acquired South African vehicle tracking business for $434m, according to the firm. It is its first investment in the crime sector.

South Carolina returns to separate accounts

The $26.2bn system has committed $750m to a ‘strategic partnership’ with TCW spin-out Crescent Capital Group. South Carolina previously set up a $759m separate account with Apollo Global Management in 2009.

AXA spin-out likely to keep management in control

AXA has hired Credit Suisse to explore a sale of its private equity arm, which could lead to a management buyout allowing the division's CEO, Dominique Senequier, to retain control.

Permira to partner with kibbutzim on deal

Permira, for the first time, will include two kibbutzim, traditional agricultural communities in Israel, as co-investors on an investment in a farming technology company.

Bridgepoint beats host of rivals to acquire Infront

European private equity firm Bridgepoint has acquired sports marketing company Infront Sports & Media, after its bid of more than €550m trumped those from rivals.

Emerging market fundraising accelerates

Fundraising by firms targeting emerging markets is accelerating, says trade body EMPEA, which predicts the total will reach $40bn by year end, almost double the $23.5bn raised in the whole of 2010.