Highlights from the 14th Annual Global Private Equity Conference

Despite the shadows cast by Europe’s economic troubles and concerns of slowing economic growth in many emerging markets, most of the 875 participants attending the 14th Annual Global Private Equity Conference, co-hosted by EMPEA and IFC, were upbeat as they shared strategies and ideas on how to prevail as private equity investors in this new financial landscape. There was a distinct shift from the cautiously optimistic mood on display during last year’s conference to a more nuanced view of today. While the fundraising climate remains tough (one speaker joked that he was losing hair due to it), many of this year’s delegates believe that now is a great time to be investing in the asset class.