Private Equity in Germany

This study evaluates the value generation potential of private equity for German mid-cap companies. A discussion of the private equity industry and the analysis of the value generation levers serve as a basis to further explore private equity value generation in the German market. First, the special features of German mid-cap companies are examined with a special focus on their financing needs. Second, the German private equity market is introduced and its differentiating features are revealed. The comparison of the findings assesses the general suitability of private equity as a financing option for German mid-cap companies and suggests that many mid-cap companies are not (yet) suited for private equity investments. Finally, the applicability of the identified value generation levers on the German mid-cap segment is analyzed with the help of a conceptual framework in order to evaluate the value generation potential. The results show that the traditional value generation levers are applicable but have to be adjusted with respect to national differences. Private equity associations have to specifically address the strong social considerations in the German business culture and the traditional unity of management, ownership, and supervision in the mid-cap segment in order to realize high rates of return. Anecdotal and recent empirical evidence indicates the relevance of many theoretical conclusions.