Fundraising

The New York-based firm has surpassed its target goal of $800 million with the closing of its new $850 million fund.

The London-based firm has closed its largest fund so far after receiving commitments of nearly €900 million from a range of US and European investors.

AIG Global Investment Group has raised $410 million for its Asia Opportunity Fund II, after investing in China, India and Korea during 2006, falling short of its $500m target.

The Euronext affiliate of KKR has committed to the largest ever proposed buyout both as a co-investor and limited partner, contributing $500 million to the deal.

The European real estate investment management firm has closed a fund targeted towards French institutional investors €100m ahead of its original target.

Mezzanine specialist Intermediate Capital has appointed a new head of investor relations, as it looks to enhance its transparency to institutional backers.

Tony Blair, the UK Prime Minister, has come to the defence of private equity as the industry continues to come in for criticism from trade unions and members of his own party.

The French quoted investment group with €6 billion under management has rationalised its business and sold its non-core interests in venture capital and real estate for $214 million to US insurer AIG.

SV Life Sciences has closed its fourth fund on $572m, just under the £300m fund that Abingworth closed last month but far exceeding its original target of $400m.

The affiliate of Kohlberg & Company and Chrysalis Capital Partners has agreed to buy parking and transportation services company Chrysalis Capital Partners.