Index figures indicate peaking expectations regarding the Central European market, which are confirmed by activities of private equity funds in the region. Similarly to the record breaking pace of global buyout markets, Central Europe also experienced acquisitions of recognized national brands by private investors in the first half of 2007 (e.g. Oaktree acquisition of Stock). This is confirmed by the findings of Deloitte’s latest Central European Private Equity Confidence Survey. Key findings- Overall confidence is at an all time high
The Private Equity Central European Confidence index shows continuous growth expectations for the region. As it reaches an all time high, we should expect record breaking deal activity in 2007. - Significant focus on new investments continues
The survey indicates that booming markets now enable fund managers to hope for rapid investment of their funds, with 58% expecting to be fully invested within two years. Also, focus on new investments continues to be the dominant activity of fund managers. 78% of managers indicated that they are continuing to focus on new investments. - IPO exits are even considered for middle size companies
79% of fund managers believe they will be able to introduce their portfolio companies to the market even with a market cap below EUR 100m.
Major investments in the second quarter 2007| Company | PE House | Date | Value* | Stake |
|---|
| Eckes & Stock GmbH | Oaktree Capital Management | June | n/a | 100% | | ETA Hlinsko, a.s. | Benson Oak | June | n/a | 100% | | Zabka Polska SA | Penta Investments, a.s. | May | 131 | 100% | | Grafika Press | KBC Private Equity | May | n/a | n/a | | Bulgarian Telecommunications Company (BTC) | AIG Capital Partners Inc. | May | 1,080 | 65% | | AAT Group | Argan Capital | May | n/a | n/a | | Carnex AD | Ashmore Investment Management Ltd. | May | 16 | 41% | | Antenna Hungaria Rt. | TPG; Axa Private Equity; Charterhouse Capital Partners | May | 327 | 100% | | SC Digital Cable Systems SA | AIG Capital Partners Inc. | May | 45 | 40% | | *) In millions of EUR | About the survey.jpg) Deloitte’s Central European Private Equity Confidence Survey reflects the expectations of private equity professionals focusing on Central Europe. The survey has been conducted twice a year since March 2003 and the results are based on questionnaires sent to professionals in private equity firms covering the following Central European countries: Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Moldova, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, and Albania. Previous reports |
