Fundraising

Madrona’s recent closing of a $167 million fund is only the latest in a flurry of VC activity in Seattle. Is the Pacific Northwest emerging as a VC powerhouse? By Dave Keating.

Kuwaiti investment bank Global Investment House has launched its second vehicle aimed at pre-IPO and IPO opportunities in the Middle East, North Africa and Asia.

Bucking some predictions, the Seattle-based firm has closed a $167 million fund to invest in technology start-ups.

The US and UK alternative asset management firm has raised over €1bn for its second mezzanine fund focusing on transactions in Europe.

The Edinburgh- and London-based mid-market investor has sold a UK modular building company for £62m.

AnaCap Financial Partners, a new pan-European private equity firm focusing on the financial services sector, has raised an oversubscribed €300m vehicle.

A new survey shows a growing portion of institutional investors intend to invest in emerging markets in coming years. Judy Kuan speaks with EMPEA’s executive director Sarah Alexander on the drivers for investors’ changing attitude.

Bain Capital has run into its $8 billion ceiling for its ninth fund, and the Boston-based group is still in the market with a $2 billion co-investment vehicle.

The Nordic private equity firm has made its first buyout of 2006 with the acquisition of Swedish fashion retail chain MQ.