Western Europe

Lehman sets up $105m venture fund with New Jersey(2)

A $105 million, New Jersey-focussed venture fund has been established by the state’s investment division along with US investment bank Lehman Brothers.

Marfin profits up six times(2)

The newly independent Marfin Investment Group has followed its €5 billion fundraising success with strong first half results, although its figures were strengthened by the sale of its banking assets to its former parent.

Private Advisors ramps up IR efforts

The firm has hired two new managing directors to lead its investor relations activities for its private equity fund of funds and hedge fund businesses in New York and Toronto.

Marfin profits up six times

The newly independent Marfin Investment Group has followed its €5 billion fundraising success with strong first half results, although its figures were strengthened by the sale of its banking assets to its former parent.

Morgan hires Metalmark, Allianz GPs

After three years at Morgan Stanley spin-out Metalmark, Eric Fry has been appointed partner at the investment bank’s new private equity arm. Meanwhile, Morgan Stanley Private Equity’s London team has hired former Allianz Capital pro Michael Hehn.

Sainsbury’s considers Qatari £500m equity increase(3)

Qatari investment arm Three Delta is likely to increase the equity component of its offer for FTSE 100-listed Sainsbury’s to meet concerns of the board that the company will be over-leveraged.

USS cranks up co-invest programme with double hire(3)

The UK's second largest pension fund the Universities Superannuation Scheme is demonstrating its appetite for alternatives with the appointment of two private equity specialists to lead its co-investment programme alongside its fund investments.

GB Merchant Partners sells Spencer’s(5)

Gordon Brothers’ private equity arm has sold specialty retailer Spencer’s Gifts to ACON Investments after streamlining its business and redesigning its stores.

Boots and Sainsbury go on the offensive

UK private equity targets Alliance Boots and Sainsbury’s were in defiant mood as they reported their latest trading results, as they try to ignore the growing speculation about possible bids.

Silver Lake Sumeru in debut tech deal

Silver Lake’s middle-market technology fund, currently reported to be raising an inaugural $1 billion, has done its first deal with the acquisition of mobile phone marketing company Mobile Messenger.