
UK - Research reveals mixed verdict on Walker guidelines
A new study conducted by business and financial adviser Grant Thronton has revealed a mixed response to the Walker Report guidelines from UK private equity professionals.
While the survey of 100 executives found that a majority, 68%, believed the industry was more transparent, only 46% of respondents felt that there was actually a greater understanding of private equity since the report was published. In addition, just 27% believed that the industry is now viewed more favourably, with 9% even suggesting that there was now a more negative perception in the market.
On the plus side, respondents displayed a general expectation that the proposals, though targeted predominantly at the large buyout houses, would help to create best practice throughout the industry. However, there was also strong evidence that the report is yet to have a substantial impact on ethical standards. Only 27% of executives stated that their firms now offered a formal ethics code, up from 24% prior to the reports publication, while 64% said there was an informal ethics code, down from 66%.
Latest News
Stonehage Fleming raises USD 130m for largest fund to date, eyes 2024 programme
Multi-family office has seen strong appetite, with investor base growing since 2016 to more than 90 family offices, Meiping Yap told Unquote
Permira to take Ergomed private for GBP 703m
Sponsor deploys Permira VIII to ride new wave of take-privates; Blackstone commits GBP 200m in financing for UK-based CRO
Partners Group to release IMs for Civica sale in mid-September
Sponsor acquired the public software group in July 2017 via the same-year vintage Partners Group Global Value 2017
Change of mind: Sponsors take to de-listing their own assets
EQT and Cinven seen as bellweather for funds to reassess options for listed assets trading underwater