In a record time, EuroMena III’s fund management team got the approval of the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) to be regulated under the de-minimis AIFMD (Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive[1]) making it one of the first funds in the region to be regulated by a European governing body, insuring international standards for EuroMena III’s investors. Building on its first closing in June 2014 of more than USD100 million, the fund is well in place to meet its target size of USD150 million to USD200 million by June 2015.
EuroMena III,The EuroMena Fund Management Team and Capital Trust Group’s fourth private equity fund in the region will invest in private companies within the Middle East and Africa operating in fast growing industries with the potential to become Regional Leading Groups. Leveraging on its vast experience, the team has built a strong pipeline of target companies operating in diversified sectors and countries within the funds’ target region. The team is aiming to complete two transactions from its current pipeline in the next four to six months launching strongly EuroMena III’s investment cycle.
Commenting on the occasion, Romen Mathieu – Managing Partner of the fund – stated: “The EuroMena Funds are a bridge between Europe, the Middle East and Africa with the objective of creating value to our shareholders while catalysing growth and implementing international governance, social and environmental standards across the region. With our businessmen mind-set and hands on approach in our portfolio companies we target high returns (IRR) for EuroMena III. Through our close relation with our various partners and managers of our portfolio companies, shareholders, advisors and service providers, we are contributing to the creation of a sustainable, long term market for Private Equity in this region, which, over the coming years, shall attract a significant amount of capital to be invested leading to sustainable development of the companies and the countries in which we invest”.
The Fund Management Team has rallied the support of leading international financial institutions turning their attention positively to the region. The main investors who committed to the fund are the EIB (European Investment Bank) for the third consecutive time, as well as the DEG – German Development Fund – , IFC – International Finance Corporation -, EDF – Electricité de France – and EuroMena I and II shareholders from the GCC and the Arab world who have shown continuous support and confidence.
In a time where many have been sceptical about the situation in the region, the EuroMena Fund Management Team and Capital Trust Group have injected a sense of hope through EuroMena III. With such commitments and positive drive towards the region, one can only be hopeful for a prosperous future.