- Top Private Equity Firms Europe Guide -
Top Private Equity Firms Europe List
Welcome to our european private equity firms guide to the Top Private Equity Firms Europe guide based on funds raised in 2022 (source: Pitchbook) broken into countries of focus in alphabetical order.
Italy
Top European Private Equity Firms: A Comprehensive Overview
Private equity firms are investment management companies that pool together capital from high net worth individuals, pension funds, and other institutional investors to invest in private companies.
These firms typically buy a majority stake in the companies they invest in and work to improve their operations and profitability before selling them for a profit.
In Europe, private equity has become an increasingly popular form of investment, with many top firms based in the region.
Private equity firms in Europe have been responsible for some of the largest deals in recent years, with many of these firms focusing on investments in technology, healthcare, and energy.
The top private equity firms in Europe are known for their ability to identify promising investment opportunities and create value for their investors.
These firms have a deep understanding of the industries they invest in and work closely with management teams to drive growth and profitability.
Top Private Equity Firms Europe; Key Takeaways
Private equity firms in Europe are investment management companies that pool together capital to invest in private companies.
The top private equity firms in Europe are known for their ability to identify promising investment opportunities and create value for their investors.
These firms have a deep understanding of the industries they invest in and work closely with management teams to drive growth and profitability.
Top Private Equity Firms Europe : Overview of Private Equity in Europe
Private equity (PE) is an alternative form of investment that involves investing in private companies with the aim of generating significant returns. Europe has a well-established private equity industry that has been growing steadily over the years, with a focus on both buyout and venture capital investments.
According to the Invest Europe Activity Data Report 2021, private equity and venture capital firms invested €138 billion into European companies in 2021, registering an increase of 27% compared to the previous year.
The private equity sector in Europe is a significant contributor to the region's economy.
Private equity investments as a share of GDP in Europe have been on the rise, with the latest figures showing that private equity investments accounted for 0.6% of the region's GDP in 2021.
The sector has also been a major source of funding for startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Europe, providing much-needed capital for growth and expansion.
Private equity investments in Europe are typically made by institutional investors, such as pension funds, endowments, and sovereign wealth funds, as well as high-net-worth individuals.
These investors are attracted to the sector because of its potential for high returns and its ability to diversify their portfolios.
The private equity industry in Europe is divided into various sub-sectors, including buyout, growth, and venture capital.
- Top Private Equity Firms Europe Guide -
Buyout funds are focused on acquiring established companies with the aim of improving their operations and generating returns through an eventual sale or IPO. Growth funds, on the other hand, invest in companies that are already established but have the potential for significant growth. Venture capital funds invest in early-stage companies that are typically in the technology or life sciences sectors.
The private equity industry in Europe is also becoming increasingly active in the financial services and fintech sectors, with a growing number of investments being made in these areas. In addition, there is a trend towards industry-specific investments, with funds focusing on sectors such as healthcare, education, and renewable energy.
Overall, the private equity industry in Europe is expected to continue to grow, driven by a favorable regulatory environment, a strong investor base, and a robust pipeline of investment opportunities. While the DACH region (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) and the Benelux region (Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg) have traditionally been the most active regions for private equity investments, there is also significant activity in Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Poland.
Top Private Equity Firms in Europe
Private equity firms are investment companies that raise funds from institutional investors and high net worth individuals to invest in private companies.
These firms typically invest in companies that are not publicly traded, with the aim of generating high returns for their investors. In Europe, private equity firms have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many firms raising significant amounts of capital to invest in a variety of sectors.
According to Statista, EQT, a Stockholm-based private equity firm, raised a combined fund raising sum of 57.3 billion U.S. dollars between 2017 and 2022, making it the largest private equity firm in Europe. Other top private equity firms in Europe include CVC Capital Partners, Partners Group, Apax Partners, and Ardian.
Private equity firms in Europe have been particularly active in the financial services sector, with many firms investing in fintech companies. According to Invest Europe, private equity investments in the fintech sector in Europe increased by 15% in 2021. Private equity firms have also been active in the insurance sector, with many firms investing in insurance companies and brokers.
Top Private Equity Firms Europe Guide
In terms of geography, private equity firms in Europe have been most active in the UK, France, and the DACH region (Germany, Switzerland, and Austria). However, there has been increasing interest in Eastern Europe, with many firms looking to invest in companies in this region.
Private equity firms in Europe have also been active in venture capital investments, with many firms investing in early-stage companies. According to Statista, the top private equity investors in Europe in 2021 by assets under management were CVC Capital Partners, Partners Group, and EQT.
Overall, private equity firms in Europe have been successful in raising significant amounts of capital to invest in a variety of sectors. With increasing interest in fintech and insurance, as well as growing interest in Eastern Europe, private equity firms in Europe are likely to remain active in the coming years.
Insights into Private Equity Investment Trends
Private equity investment has been on the rise in Europe in recent years, with investors showing a strong appetite for the sector. According to a report by S&P Global Market Intelligence, European investors are particularly optimistic about the industry's outlook, with 98% predicting that deal-making activity will either improve or remain the same. Meanwhile, respondents in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region maintain a more cautious view.
The start of 2023 has seen a continuation of 2022's significant slowdown in PE-related deal activity as buyers and sellers navigate ongoing macroeconomic turbulence, challenging debt markets, and global geopolitical uncertainty, according to PwC's midyear outlook report. Over the past year, PE-related deal volumes have declined by approximately 30%.
Top Private Equity Firms Europe Guide
Bain's industry-leading private equity report highlights that private investments in software and tech have exploded to become the industry's dominant area of focus. This trend is expected to continue, with investors looking to capitalize on the growth potential of these sectors.
Private equity firms are under increasing pressure to integrate ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) into their investment strategies.
This presents a significant opportunity for the industry, and for society as a whole. According to a recent issue of Harvard Business Review, BCG experts examine how PE firms can lead the way in sustainable investing.
McKinsey's Private Markets Annual Review shows that after a year of pandemic-driven turbulence that suppressed fundraising and deal activity, private markets rebounded across the board. Fundraising was up by nearly 20% year over year to reach a record of almost $1.2 trillion, while dealmakers were busier than ever, deploying $3.5 trillion across various sectors.
In conclusion, private equity investment trends in Europe are showing a positive outlook, with investors optimistic about the industry's future. The dominance of software and tech investments is expected to continue, while ESG integration is becoming increasingly important. The rebound in private markets is a promising sign for the industry, with fundraising and deal activity showing strong growth.
Top Private Equity Firms Europe Guide
Understanding the Role of Private Equity in the European Economy
Private equity (PE) is a type of investment in which investors provide capital to companies that are not publicly traded. In exchange for their investment, the investors receive ownership stakes in the company. Private equity firms in Europe have been playing a significant role in the economy by providing capital to companies that are in need of funding for growth or acquisitions.
PE firms invest in various sectors, including financial services, fintech, and industry-specific companies. They also invest in different stages of a company's lifecycle, from early-stage funding rounds to mature companies that are looking to expand.
According to Invest Europe, the association representing Europe's private equity, venture capital, and infrastructure sectors, private equity investments as a share of GDP in Europe reached a record high of 0.9% in 2020, indicating the growing importance of private equity in the European economy.
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Private equity firms have been actively involved in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in Europe, making deals worth billions of euros. In 2020, private equity firms invested €88 billion of equity in over 8,000 European companies, which is the second-highest investment total ever recorded in Europe.
Private equity firms in Europe have also been investing in venture capital investments, which are investments made in startups and early-stage companies. In 2020, the value of venture capital investments in Europe reached €41.5 billion, a 4% increase from the previous year.
The DACH region, which includes Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, has been a significant market for private equity firms in Europe, accounting for 42% of all private equity investments in the region in 2020. The Benelux region, which includes Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, was also a popular destination for private equity investments, accounting for 16% of all private equity investments in Europe in 2020.
Private equity firms in Europe have different types of investors, including pension funds, endowments, and high-net-worth individuals. These investors provide capital to private equity firms, which, in turn, invest in companies.
In conclusion, private equity firms have been playing a significant role in the European economy by providing capital to companies that are in need of funding for growth or acquisitions. They invest in various sectors and stages of a company's lifecycle, making deals worth billions of euros. Private equity investments as a share of GDP in Europe continue to rise, indicating the growing importance of private equity in the European economy.
Conclusion
Private equity firms are an essential part of the European financial landscape. They provide capital to businesses that need it and help them grow and expand. The largest private equity firms in Europe have raised billions of euros in funds, enabling them to invest in a wide range of companies across different industries.
The top private equity firms in Europe are led by EQT, which has raised over $57 billion in funds between 2017 and 2022, according to Statista. Nordic Capital XI, which raised €9 billion in October 2022, is the largest European private equity fund to close in 2022, according to PitchBook.
- Top European Private Equity Firms Europe Guide -
Despite economic headwinds, the European private equity industry has remained resilient, with deal count and value increasing in 2022, according to PitchBook's 2022 Annual European PE Breakdown. The industry has adjusted its ambitions in response to an increasingly hostile macroeconomic environment, using interest rate hikes to combat rising inflation, as reported by PitchBook's Q1 2023 European PE Breakdown.
Private equity firms are likely to continue to play a significant role in the European financial sector in the coming years. As the economy continues to recover from the pandemic, businesses will need capital to grow and expand, and private equity firms will be there to provide it.
Top Private Equity Firms Europe Guide : Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top 100 private equity firms by AUM in Europe?
As of 2022, the top 100 private equity firms by assets under management (AUM) in Europe include EQT, Ardian, CVC Capital Partners, and Apax Partners.
These firms have consistently raised large amounts of capital and invested in a variety of industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods.
Which European mid cap private equity firms have been the most successful?
Mid cap private equity firms in Europe have seen success in recent years, with firms like Vitruvian Partners, Hg, and Silverfleet Capital achieving strong returns on their investments.
These firms have specialized in investing in mid-sized companies with growth potential, and have been able to generate significant value for their investors.
What are some notable private equity backed companies in Europe?
There are many notable companies in Europe that have been backed by private equity firms, including Spotify, TeamViewer, and The Hut Group.
These companies have seen significant growth and success after receiving investment from private equity firms, and have become leaders in their respective industries.
What are the best private equity firms to work for in Europe?
There are many private equity firms in Europe that offer attractive career opportunities, including Blackstone, KKR, and Carlyle Group.
These firms have a strong reputation in the industry and offer competitive compensation packages, as well as opportunities for professional growth and development.
What is the largest buyout fund raised by a European private equity firm?
The largest buyout fund raised by a European private equity firm is currently the EQT IX fund, which raised €15.6 billion in 2019.
This fund is focused on investing in companies with strong growth potential in a variety of industries, including healthcare, technology, and consumer goods.
What is the current state of private equity in Europe?
Private equity activity in Europe has remained strong in recent years, with firms continuing to raise significant amounts of capital and invest in a variety of industries.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on the industry, with some firms focusing on distressed investments and others taking a more cautious approach to new investments. Despite these challenges, private equity remains a key driver of economic growth and job creation in Europe.
Top European Private Equity Firms Europe Guide
The Private Equity Industry in Europe
The private equity industry in Europe is a major player in the global economy. In 2021, European private equity firms raised €115 billion in new capital, which was the third-highest amount raised in the world.
The industry also supported over 200,000 jobs in Europe.
The European private equity industry is dominated by a few large firms, including Blackstone, KKR, and Carlyle Group.
These firms have a long history of success and have a strong track record of generating returns for their investors.
In recent years, the European private equity industry has become more focused on technology.
A number of European firms have invested in technology companies, including Spotify, Adform, and Zalando. These investments have helped to make Europe a leading destination for technology startups.
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The European private equity industry is also becoming more international. In 2021, European firms made investments in over 80 countries. This trend is likely to continue as European firms look for new opportunities to grow their businesses.
The private equity industry is a major contributor to the European economy. It provides capital for businesses, creates jobs, and helps to drive innovation. The industry is also a major source of foreign investment in Europe.
The future of the European private equity industry is bright. The industry is well-positioned to continue to grow and contribute to the European economy.
Here are some of the key factors that are driving the growth of the European private equity industry:
Strong economy: Europe has a strong economy with a growing middle class. This provides a good environment for private equity firms to invest in businesses.
Attractive valuations: European businesses are often undervalued compared to their counterparts in other countries. This makes them attractive targets for private equity firms.
Government support: The European government supports the private equity industry through a number of initiatives. This includes tax breaks for investors and support for startups.
Talent pool: Europe has a strong talent pool of engineers, managers, and entrepreneurs. This makes it a good place for private equity firms to find qualified employees.
The European private equity industry is a major player in the global economy and is well-positioned to continue to grow in the years to come.
Here are some of the specific trends that are shaping the European private equity industry:
The rise of technology: Technology is one of the most active sectors in the European private equity industry. Private equity firms are investing in technology companies at all stages of development, from early-stage startups to established businesses.
The growth of the digital economy: The digital economy is another major driver of growth in the European private equity industry. Private equity firms are investing in companies that are disrupting traditional industries, such as retail, media, and transportation.
The expansion of the European market: European private equity firms are increasingly investing outside of Europe. This is due to the growing attractiveness of emerging markets and the increasing opportunities for cross-border deals.
How many private equity firms are there in Europe?
According to a 2022 research by Invest Europe, there are 1,800 private equity firms in Europe. This number includes both buyout firms and venture capital firms. The UK has the most private equity firms in Europe, with over 418 firms. Germany is in second place with 277 firms, followed by France with 175 firms.
Here are the top 5 countries in Europe with the most private equity firms:
UK: 418
Germany: 277
France: 175
Switzerland: 126
Italy: 113
The private equity market in Europe is growing rapidly. In 2021, private equity firms in Europe invested over €680 billion in European companies. This was an increase of 60% from 2020.
- Top Private Equity Firms Europe Guide -
The growth of the private equity market in Europe is being driven by a number of factors, including:
The increasing availability of capital from institutional investors, such as pension funds and insurance companies.
The growing number of attractive investment opportunities in Europe, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors.
The increasing demand for private equity from businesses that are looking to grow and expand.
How big is private equity in Europe?
According to Preqin, a research house specializing in alternatives, the private equity market in Europe surpassed $4.74 trillion at the start of 2021.
The private equity market in Europe is made up of two main sectors: buyout and venture capital. Buyout firms invest in existing companies, typically with the goal of taking them private and improving their performance. Venture capital firms invest in early-stage companies, typically with the goal of helping them grow and become successful.
- Top Private Equity Firms Europe Guide -
The private equity market in Europe is dominated by buyout firms. In 2021, buyout firms in Europe invested over $319 billion in European companies. This was an increase of 50% from 2020.
The venture capital market in Europe is also growing rapidly. In 2021, venture capital firms in Europe invested over €170 billion in European companies. This was an increase of 60% from 2020.
The growth of the private equity market in Europe is being driven by a number of factors, including:
The increasing availability of capital from institutional investors, such as pension funds and insurance companies.
The growing number of attractive investment opportunities in Europe, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors.
The increasing demand for private equity from businesses that are looking to grow and expand.
The private equity market in Europe is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. This growth will be driven by the continued availability of capital, the growth of the European economy, and the increasing demand for private equity from businesses.
Here are some of the key trends that are expected to shape the private equity market in Europe in the coming years:
Increased focus on ESG: Private equity firms are expected to increase their focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in their investment decisions. This is due to the growing demand from investors for sustainable investments, as well as the increasing regulatory pressure on companies to improve their ESG performance.
More deals in the lower middle market: Private equity firms are expected to focus more on deals in the lower middle market in the coming years. This is due to the increasing availability of attractive investment opportunities in this market, as well as the lower valuations of these businesses.
- Top Private Equity Firms Europe Guide -
Increased use of data analytics: Private equity firms are expected to increase their use of data analytics in their investment decisions. This is due to the growing availability of data and the ability of data analytics to help firms identify attractive investment opportunities and manage their risk.
More cross-border deals: Private equity firms are expected to do more cross-border deals in the coming years. This is due to the increasing globalization of the economy and the growing opportunities for cross-border investment.
Overall, the private equity market in Europe is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
However, there are some challenges that firms will need to address, such as rising interest rates and geopolitical uncertainty.
By focusing on ESG factors, investing in the lower middle market, and using data analytics, private equity firms can position themselves for success in the years to come.
Top Private Equity Firms Europe - Biggest European Private Equity Funds
