UK - BVCA research predicts economic slowdown

The private equity and venture capital industry is bracing itself for an economic slowdown, according to new research published today by the BVCA т€“ The British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association. The YouGov poll of BVCA members shows that 70% of companies expect the UKт€™s economic environment to get worse in 2008. Simon Walker, chief executive of the BVCA, commented: т€œThe clouds are gathering. This is not going to be an easy year for the economy or for private equity. The economic environment is becoming much tougher. It is essential for the UK economy that private equity can compete in difficult times, creating new jobs and providing good returns for pension funds."