Matilda Battersby

Ethos Private Equity and Old Mutual Private Equity have invested in the African Northern Cape-based lime and calcium processing plant Idwala Industrial, for a reported 44 % stake. The deal represented an exit for the Tisco Group and RMB Ventures.

Michael Queen will steer the private equity firm following Philip Yea's resignation from the top spot. Last year, 3i invested a total of £841m, down dramatically from the £1.8bn the prior year. 3i's share price has plummeted in recent months, this morning losing nearly 4%, giving it a £941m market capitalisation.

The UK-based association representing more than 20 investor institutions, including the Wellcome Trust, Hermes and the USS, is seeking to raise its profile and better represent LPs during the downturn.

Africa-focused private equity firm Development Partners International has backed South Africa-based telecom company Q-Venture. The firm has raised €272m toward its debut fund, which it aims to close on €400m in 2009.

The European private equity firm has departed from the traditional 2% management fee structure, opting to take 1.75% for managing its latest fund.

CalPERS veteran Anne Stausboll will lead the US’ largest public pension plan and influential private equity investor. The pension is still searching for a CIO following the departure of Russel Read earlier this year.

The Indian private equity firm is also reportedly on the verge of making a first close on its $800m Asian infrastructure growth fund.

The firm’s banking syndicate will provide temporary liquidity in an attempt to secure the future of the grossly indebted firm.

Former BHP Billiton executive will join Denham’s London office to focus on mining investments.

The Washington DC-based private equity giant has invested in China’s education sector, in a week that has also seen the firm close its Warsaw office and Sydney-based Asian leveraged finance group.