10 trends Defining Private Equity in 2008
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by Imad Ghandour May 3, 2008

written by Imad Ghandour May 3, 2008

2007 was another stellar year for private equity in MENA. The billion dollar deal milestone has been broken for the first time with the Egyptian Fertilizers Company deal. Fundraising for existing funds remained strong, and the first billion dollar fund was raised. Exits, once a mirage, are becoming more common with 18 exits reported in 2007 up from 6 in 2005. 2008 will be year of opportunities amid global and regional challenges. The impact of the global downturn in the next few months will be difficult for all financial players — including private equiteers operating in MENA. A sober market will make slow the investment cycle – bringing valuations down, but lower valuations will yield higher returns for PE funds over the long term. More risk-averse and better educated investors will make fundraising more challenging, but for those who already delivered returns and gained the trust of investors, tapping

Imad Ghandour

Imad is the Co-founder and Managing Director of CedarBridge, an investment company focusing on high-growth opportunities in education, healthcare, wellness & beauty, and retail in Europe and MENA. With over 15 years of experience in private equity across MENA, the UK, and China, he serves on several boards, including SAE Arabia and The Grooming Company. He has also served as a director for major organizations like CIRA, Maarif Education, and Metito. Imad co-founded the MENA Private Equity Association, is a member of the British Venture Capital Association, and holds an Engineering degree from the American University of Beirut and an MBA from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

10 trends Defining Private Equity in 2008ENAR

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10 trends Defining Private Equity in 2008
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