Opportunities for innovation

01 March 2008

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A survey published at the end of January by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) reported a very positive situation for the Netherlands. Despite stagnation at the beginning of the century, the Dutch economy is now in good shape thanks to several governmental reforms. The survey certainly raises some obstacles for further growth, however, the private equity industry is part of a new dynamism in the country. While neighbouring countries continue to debate the impact of the credit crunch and expect a slowdown, life goes on in the Benelux region and investors are confident and optimistic for the region. Financial activity remains steady

Also of note is the increasing number of deals in innovative and fast-changing sectors. Since 2005, the number of transactions in sectors such as biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, cleantech and renewable energy or software has been substantial. The two recent acquisitions of medical research laboratories by BioGeneration Venture and the two rounds of funding by Emergya are just examples of this. Similarly, four of the last 10 funds raised in Benelux have been dedicated to investments in biotechnology (see front cover). According to foreign investors, Benelux is very open to these future-driven industries and the Netherlands especially is a good place to go for interested investors.

Yours sincerely,

Domitille Lainey, Benelux editor, unquote"

Tel: +44 20 7004 7475

domitille.lainey@incisivemedia.com.