Western Europe

PAI starts quoted equity business

The Paris-based buyout firm has become the latest to follow 3i into the quoted equity fund management arena by backing veteran Philippe Guez in his new firm. The start-up will mirror 3i’s quoted equities model by targeting minority stakes.

Beltone and Siparex to launch $150m fund

The Egyptian investment bank's private equity arm and the French private equity firm will make growth capital investments in Egypt and the GCC countries.

Swatch invests in DIC portfolio company

The Swiss watch-maker has invested in Rivoli Group, a Dubai International Capital portfolio company that sells luxury goods in the MENA region. The retailer sells products including Gucci watches, Roberto Cavalli eyewear and Vertu mobile phones.

Stirling Square looks to aerospace

The mid-market firm is backing a programme of European expansion for the aerospace component manufacturer, which is based in Italy.

AXA backs French B2B information business

The French buyout firm has bought a controlling stake in Altares with a plan to support the business’ growth through acquisitions.

Lion bites into food sector

Lion Capital is backing the food sector for growth in a secondary transaction, which marks the culmination of CapVest’s acquisitive run building one of Europe’s largest frozen food manufacturers.

$31m funding for Chinese photovoltaic product manufacturer

ET Solar has received $50m in funding in the last four months as private equity firms continue to invest heavily in China's alternative energy sector and the environment.

European deals down 50% in value

But signs of a limited recovery at the larger end of the mid-market are reasons for optimism in a tough economic environment. The mid-market is holding firm, says Candover's Colin Buffin.

Advent sells site to Expedia

The global buyout firm backed the expansion of Italian travel site Venere, which grew quickly in two years to a size attractive to its global rival.

HSBC vows to keep KEB listed

HSBC has entered into an agreement with KEB's labour union, affirming that the Korean bank will not be delisted and that its employees will be protected, if its buyout attempt is approved.