2024: Ahead of the curve
As we bid farewell to January - which passed in a flash - I’m delighted to share a recap of the Invest Europe’s activities and outcomes that marked the beginning of this promising new year.
?? New publication: Navigating European Mergers & Acquisitions Regulations
In the dynamic realm of European M&A, understanding the regulatory landscape is crucial, but it need not be overwhelming. Leveraging the expertise within our membership, we published on 18 January a quick-reference guide to simplify our members’ journey. This publication provides practical guidance on M&A rules, outlines key workstreams for approval, and highlights steps to successfully close deals in both the EU and the U.K. Members can download the guide ?for insights tailored for both M&A novices and seasoned professionals.
?? Policy event: 'InvestEU: Financing Europe’s future'
InvestEU remains a cornerstone for Europe's future, and the 23 January event I spoke at, 'Financing Europe's Future,' underscored its significance. Featuring influential voices such as José Manuel Fernandes, Fabio Pammolli,?Veronique Willems, and others, the discussions emphasised the importance of simplicity in InvestEU's operational processes, aligning policy objectives with market realities, and supporting vital market segments. For more details and a recording of the event, click here.
?? Policy event: ‘The future of EU State Aid policy in relation to Europe’s competition & competitiveness goals’
Our 24 January event focused on the future of EU State Aid policy, I highlighted, along with the other keynote speakers?Ben Smulders, Deputy Director-General, DG Competition and?Gonzague Boutry, Managing Director for Digital Infrastructure at Invest Europe member?Ardian, the pivotal role of private equity, venture capital and infrastructure funding in shaping Europe's competitiveness.
As the EU tackles challenges such as the scale-up gap and sustainable energy transition, collaboration between policymakers and investors becomes essential. The event was a testament to our commitment to fostering innovation and fair competition.
Special thanks to Ambassador?Ioannis Vrailas, Deputy Ambassadors Jurga Kasputiene and Franz Wirtenberger, Members of?European Parliament?Stéphanie Yon-Courtin?and Anna Cavanzzini, and?European Commission representatives?Astrid Bartels,?Giulia Del Brenna, and Paolo Pasimeni for making the time to be with us for this important discussion.
? Updated report: Investor Reporting Guidelines
Our Professional Standards Committee has meticulously updated the Investor Reporting Guidelines to reflect recent market and regulatory developments. This valuable resource for PE, VC and infrastructure fund managers, and investors – published on 25 January - now includes expanded guidance on strategies like special situation/distressed funds and updated recommendations on performance measurement and reporting.
For more information, see the guidelines here and explore the archive for the recording of the webinar discussion.
?? The voice of LPs: Bridging the infrastructure gap
Published today is the first in a series of exclusive articles by the members of our LP Council, with Frank Amberg , Managing Director, Head of Infrastructure Germany, AltamarCAM Partners , taking us through the importance and role of private capital in helping bridge the funding gap for infrastructure – across Europe and the globe. Our thanks to Frank for leading the charge!
COMING UP!
? 5 February: SFDR webinar
Mark your calendars for our upcoming SFDR webinar on 5 February. This session will delve into ESMA's recent guidelines on ESG, sustainability-related terms in fund names, and the ESAs' Final Report on draft Regulatory Technical Standards. Whether you're a fund manager, investor, or adviser, this webinar will equip you with actionable guidance on remaining compliant with evolving rules.
? 20 & 21 March: Investors’ Forum in Geneva
Register now and join us in Geneva for our annual event bringing together over 400 leading LPs and GPs and top speakers that will discuss the latest industry insights and data. It’s a unique chance to have peer-to-peer debates on key topics in a non-commercial setting. 10% GPs can register with 10% discount until 26 February.
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As we look back on an impactful January, I am thrilled about the opportunities and collaborations ahead. Here's to more shared insights and successes in the coming months for private equity, venture capital and infrastructure!
Yours,
Eric
CEO, Invest Europe
#InvestEurope #BuildingBetterBusinesses #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital #Infrastructure