Toby Lewis

The move underlines the firm’s rapid expansion of its growth capital business in contrast to its smaller commitments to venture capital following a wave of post dotcom crash write-downs.

Nordic firm Procuritas Capital Investors sold moulding company DISA after more than doubling its turnover in two and a half years.

The emerging markets firm acquired the company alongside black economic empowerment partners so that it could appeal to wide client base in the country.

Despite vigorous lobbying by business groups, the UK government has pushed ahead with its plans which will force many private equity professionals in the country to pay the level on worldwide earnings.

The buyout firm is hoping the life insurer’s demands will bring forward discussions.

The former chief executive of UK motoring group AA Tim Parker has joined the European buyout firm, where he has worked on two highly profitable deals earning him the nickname “the Prince of Darkness”.

The European mid-market remains active despite the credit crunch.

The Dubai investment firm’s late-stage talks to buy a stake in the football club have ended as buyout legend Tom Hicks, one of two co-owners of the club, exercised a veto on any sale of the club’s shares.

The firm is one of numerous mid-market firms swelling its ranks to capitalise on continuing deal activity in its market segment.

Despite $170 million in fourth quarter losses the firm is confident present market conditions will play to its strengths as a private equity investor.