Private Equity as an Asset Class

Unfairly reviled, and much misunderstood, private equity differs from all other asset classes in various important respects, not least the way in which its fund mechanisms operate, and the way in which its returns are recorded and analysed. Sadly, high level asset allocation decisions are frequently made on the basis of prejudice and misinformation, rather than a proper appreciation of the facts.

Guy Fraser-Sampson draws upon more than twenty years of experience of the private equity industry to provide a practical guide to mastering the intricacies of this highly specialist asset class. Aimed equally at investors, professionals and business school students, it starts with such fundamental questions as 'what is private equity?' and progresses to detailed consideration of different types of private equity activity such as venture capital and buyout.

Rapid and significant changes in the environment during the recent financial crisis have prompted the need for a new edition. Separate chapters have been added on growth and development capital, as well as secondary investing. Newly emergent issues are considered, such as lengthening holding periods and the possible threat of declining returns. Particular problems, such as the need to distinguish between private equity and hedge funds, are addressed. The glossary has also been expanded. In short, readers will find that this new edition takes their understanding of the asset class to new heights.

Key points include:

• A glossary of private equity terms
• Venture capital
• Buyout
• Growth capital
• Development capital
• Secondary investing
• Understanding private equity returns
• Analysing funds and returns
• How to plan a fund investment programme
• Detailed discussion of industry performance figures

About the author

GUY FRASER-SAMPSON has over twenty years' experience of the private equity industry, most notably having set up and run for several years the European operations of Horsley Bridge. As a partner in the firm, and Managing Director of Horsley Bridge International, he had a unique opportunity to interact simultaneously with private equity managers from all over the world, including famous 'golden circle' venture firms based predominantly in California. He previously lived and worked in the Middle East as Investment Controller with the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA).

He has extensive experience of the evaluation of private equity managers, including having personally designed and developed a computer model for the evaluation of buyout performance, but is equally recognised as an expert on venture capital. In addition to his work with funds, he has also conducted direct, secondary and mezzanine transactions over the years.

Guy teaches post-graduate modules on private equity and investment strategy at Cass Business School in the City of London, and is also recognised as an authority on all types of alternative assets. He performs consultancy and high level executive training assignments for clients around the world, and is also in demand as a provider of keynote addresses at investment conferences. He conducts regular investor workshops around the world based upon his books.