Siddharth Poddar

China's securities regulator has reportedly given approval to two more securities firms to invest directly in private equity. Roughly $1.5bn in government-backed private equity funds were also reportedly approved.

The Blackstone Group has expanded its presence in Asia with the launch of an office in Beijing, its fourth in the region.

After a tortuous process Tasman Capital Partners has acquired Nikko's Australian portfolio and is to launch a mid-market private equity fund for investments in Australia and New Zealand.

Citi Venture Capital International has appointed PR Srinivasan as its India head following the departure of Ajay Relan from the firm to start his own fund.

MBK Partners is set to invest ¥7bn in Tasaki Shinju to help strengthen the company's domestic market position and expand its overseas operations. This will be the firm's second deal in Japan.

The Palo Alto firm has tied up with Indian venture firm Erasmic, and plans to raise a $60 million venture capital fund for investing in multiple sectors in the country.

Many European limited partners are concerned about China's regulatory environment and cultural differences, but most want to invest increasingly in the country.

The venture capital firm has hired Bill Li as a managing director and promoted two of its vice presidents in China.

Canbank Venture Capital, one of India's oldest venture capital firms, is set to launch its fifth and largest fund to date.

The Swiss watch-maker has invested in Rivoli Group, a Dubai International Capital portfolio company that sells luxury goods in the MENA region. The retailer sells products including Gucci watches, Roberto Cavalli eyewear and Vertu mobile phones.