Jenny Blinch

Wilcom, Japan's fourth largest telecoms operator, has filed for bankruptcy.

False rumours that Affinity plans to raise Fund IV this year indicate some positive things for Asia's private equity industry, writes Jenny Blinch.

The Australian Tax Office's proposals for stricter tax rules on private equity investment stand to lose Australia its title as Asia's most investor-friendly investment destination.

Australia's draft rules on tougher tax for private equity deals lack an understanding of the asset class and will drive foreign investors from Australia, the Australian private equity association has said.

Continued public and media hostility towards private equity in Australia may become a factor for GPs when weighing up their exit options.

The firm has lowered its final target to $500m in line with market conditions.

Youku expects to close another $40m funding round from new investors in the next six months.

The Jordan-based firm launched its second fund at the start of 2007 but commitments stalled in the ‘dead’ fundraising environment.

The Indian firm has now raised a total of $350m for its third fund from domestic investors.

The IPO implies a 6x paper return for second largest shareholder The Carlyle Group, which is subject to a one-year lock-up period and has no intentions to ‘rush for the door’.