Matt Levin

The private equity firm will likely hold a first close on more than $523m, topping its entire previous fund. Launched in the second quarter of this year, the fund will be one of the largest dedicated pan-Africa funds raised to date if it meets its target.

The emerging markets specialist has partnered with Old Mutual Investment Group to acquire energy and electrical engineering company Alstom South Africa.

Blank cheque company Global BPO Services has acquired tech support firm Stream Holdings, which HIG built from a $75m platform investment in 2003.

A team of ex-Google engineers have debuted search engine Cuil to mixed reviews. Have VC firms Greylock, Madrone and Tugboat backed a contender or a start-up flop?

The Oregon Investment Council has also retained its target allocation to private equity at 16 percent.

The emerging markets specialist plans to expand Mo’men Group for Foods throughout Northern Africa and the Persian Gulf. The deal is Actis' second food-related acquisition in Egypt after investing in halawi and tahina maker El-Rashidi El-Mizan.

The technology and healthcare specialist has also participated in a $13m financing round for myYearbook.com, a teen social networking website.

The US mid-market specialist has surpassed its initial target of $600m and more than doubled its previous fundraise in 2005.

The beleaguered airline has secured $75m in debtor-in-possession financing and $100m in equity from the Washington DC-based firm.

Unilever’s North American laundry business, which includes detergent and fabric softener brands Snuggle and Surf, will be combined with Vestar portfolio company Huish Detergents. Unilever will retain a $375m stake in the combined business.