Real assets in a COVID-19 world
In this paper, we discuss some of real assets, namely infrastructure and real estate, investment trends that have been brought to the fore during the COVID-19 crisis, from accelerating digitalisation to the decline in retail property. We will explore how asset classifications are likely to develop in response to these long-term trends and why it…
ESG factors gaining ground in pension fund investing
If the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us anything, it is the importance of the community in which we live and work. We see this importance upheld through organic ESG improvements. There have been many uplifting stories in social media about acts of goodwill, not just by individuals, but by companies who have responded to the…
Back to school for venture investing? VC in the post-Covid environment
The resurgence of Covid-19 across Europe continues to make headlines, but as summer draws to a close and with schools reopening, the UK is doing its best to get back to normal. For those covering the VCT market, it seems like just the other day when RNS feeds were reporting the publication of revised NAVs,…
10 VC facts: past, present and future
This month MJ Hudson celebrated it’s 10-year anniversary. So, in this article, we wanted to capitalise on it by shining a light on ten key facts of the Venture Capital industry that illustrate its state of play, scope, and successes. We have seen in past financial crises that Venture Capital has had a significant hand…
“Knock, knock” – how to approach negotiations with your lender: 5 top tips
Our previous article covered aspects of a company’s third-party credit facilities that could cause concern in light of the hardships caused by COVID-19. In this piece we provide practical tips on how a borrower might approach discussions with third party lenders to refinance or adjust the terms of its facilities 1. Engage early and decisively…
Looking at how VCTs managed the UK lockdown
As lockdown measures ease across the UK, the impact on the economy is starting to become apparent. With a contraction of over 20% in the UK economy in April alone, according to some accounts, the economy is expected to shrink by 8% in 2020. Whatever the eventual outcome, it will be heavily dependent on the…
Listen up, and listen good: the other half of private markets communications
Inside, you’ll find a host of datapoints and some (we contend!) insightful commentary on the impact on communications and wellbeing for private funds pros, during the current pandemic. And whilst there are plenty of interesting aspects to the report, I want to draw your attention, today, to just one, because there are important implications for…
How you communicate during a crisis matters … A lot
The way that managers communicate with me during the current COVID-19 crisis will have a lasting impact on how I view them. We are now part of a new, larger team that does a lot of research, which is fantastic. A recent survey of LPs revealed some insight I feel compelled to share. All GPs…
Private equity funds post crisis: eight key trends
With the global health crisis dominating headlines around the world, the true effect that this will have on the Private Equity industry and Private Equity funds is yet to be seen. In this article we highlight eight trends we expect to emerge from the crisis. 1. Pension funds under pressure Public and private pension plans…
Work-life collision: Is working from home working?
So far, this morning, I have been interrupted by children four times (one of which was to bring me some sourdough toast, to be fair), have lost audio or video connection with a colleague, twice (and with a client, once), and have had to deal with a colourful variety of noise pollutants: dogs; determined house…