Western Europe

Graphite Enterprise Trust sells Huntress to Nomura-backed team

Secondary sale nets healthy return for the quoted buyout trust. Graphite backed the recruitment business from start-up to a network of 17 offices.

Horlick warns industry to sharpen presentation skills(3)

Nicola Horlick, chief executive of UK fund manager Bramdean, used her keynote speech at yesterday's PEI Media conference to highlight the task facing the industry if it is to continue its growth and move into the mainstream.

Montagu makes quick sale to trade buyer(2)

Trade buyer Towergate has bought IT company Open International from Montagu Private Equity, led by Chris Masterson, indicating trade sales are still viable as an exit route.

Actis targets $2.5bn for global emerging markets funds(3)

Actis is switching tack with the launch of a global fund, aiming for a $1.25 billion global umbrella vehicle alongside four regional side-funds, the largest pool of capital in its history.

Synova Capital launches with £70m first close

Synova Capital is the latest in a rash of firms launching to target the UK lower mid-market. It follows Darwin Private Equity, a spin out from Permira and CVC; and London openings for Fidelity Equity Partners and HIG Capital.

3i Infrastructure rapidly deploys capital on back of legacy investments

3i Infrastructure is investing ahead of schedule and looks set to outperform return expectations. Separately its largest shareholder 3i Group exited a Finnish data services company with a six times return over three and a half years.

Palamon takes stake in online retailer

Palamon Capital Partners has carried out its ninth investment for its latest fund as it looks to benefit from the growth of online clothes shopping.

Horlick warns industry to sharpen presentation skills(2)

Nicola Horlick, chief executive of UK fund manager Bramdean, used her keynote speech at yesterday's PEI Media conference to highlight the task facing the industry if it is to continue its growth and move into the mainstream.

Oaktree closes $4bn hung bridge fund

The alternative investment firm raised the vehicle in just two months, co-founder Howard Marks told PEO.

ECP set to raise another fund after rapidly investing $500m(3)

Emerging Capital Partners, the pan-African buyout firm led by Tom Gibian, which started the trend towards regional funds on the continent, looks set to hit the fundraising trail just months after closing its latest fund.