'Private equity fundraising in H1'2010 is already equal to fundraising in FY2009. This would suggest that private equity activity is expected to gradually increase after two turbulent years for the regional industry' said Mr. Nasser Saidi from Hawkamah during the launch of the GVCA Annual Report 2009.

The launch event was suitably understated with most presentations focusing on the medium term consequences of the financial crisis and the future direction of the industry. The report includes a survey of the 25 leading GPs in the region and the results show c.72% of respondents expecting the economic situation to improve.

The report highlights the following reasons for fewer transactions in 2009 as compared to previous years:

· Non-availability of acquisition finance

· Valuation expectations of sellers continued to be at the pre-crisis level

· Fund managers focusing management resources on deep dive evaluation of portfolio entities

If you would like a copy of the report or wish to discuss its contents please contact us at info@hbgholdings.com