FAQ

What is private equity?

Private equity invests capital in companies that are perceived to have growth potential and then works with these companies to expand or turnaround the business. This capital is contributed by large institutional investors and is organized into a fund. After three to seven years of ownership and working with the company, the fund manager will seek to “exit” the company by taking the business public or selling it for a higher valuation than it was purchased. This exit distributes profits from the sale (“returns”) to the investors in the fund and the fund manager.manager

Where does private equity invest?

Private equity invests across the U.S., from major metropolises to rural towns. Our industry doesn’t look at zip codes when it invests, instead we look for potential. Companies receiving private equity investment span every sector, including healthcare, energy, information technology, materials & resources, hospitality, and many more.

Who benefits from private equity?

The private equity industry benefits investors, companies, workers, and communities. Investors gain from higher returns and less volatility than public markets. Companies receiving private equity investment benefit from access to capital as well as business mentorship and expertise. Workers benefit from stronger companies that are committed to growth. And communities across the country are bolstered by private equity investment that helps build sustainable companies and jobs.

What is the difference between private equity and venture capital?

Venture capital funds invest in companies at the seed (concept) and start-up (typically in the first ten years) phase of a company and often take minority stakes. Private equity funds invest in more mature companies through buyouts and buy-ins and work to improve efficiencies and boost growth. In the last ten years, private equity firms have increasingly acquired venture-backed companies, as these businesses require even more capital to innovate and reach their growth potential.

What is the difference between private equity and hedge funds?


Private equity funds invest in private companies – companies not listed on public exchanges – and typically take ownership stakes. Fund managers work with these companies to increase value for the long-term, over three to seven years of ownership. By contrast, hedge funds invest pools of capital for short-term returns, usually through stocks, bonds, or commodities, and do not make controlling investments in companies. Hedge funds typically use complex trading strategies to capitalize on short-term market movements.

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