Economy

The African PE industry has become increasingly complex and diverse, with the arrival of global institutional investors in recent years paving the way for some of the world’s largest firms to enter the market. Between 2014 and 2019 the total value of the 1053 PE deals reported in Africa reached $25.4bn. While deal volumes have maintained an upward trend, their value has gradually eased, suggesting growing investor interest but smaller deal sizes. Moreover, in addition to consumer-driven industries, PE fund managers have diversified their strategies to invest across a variety of sectors such as IT, renewable energy, infrastructure and real estate.

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria are increasingly shaping the global corporate agenda.

Many emerging markets are turning towards infrastructure development to stimulate the economic recovery from the coranvirus pandemic, with a particular focus on green and sustainable developments. 

South-east Asia is seeing a wave of interest in special purpose acquisition companies, or SPACs, with various major tech players considering them as a means to fast-track public listings. In parallel to this, several exchanges in the region are moving to allow SPAC listings, with a view to boosting post-coronavirus growth.

The coronavirus pandemic has raised awareness among GCC countries of the importance of environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards. If current trends continue, then ESG could become a valuable element of the region’s recovery from Covid-19.

With Covid-19 facilitating the widespread adoption of remote working practices, some emerging markets are seeking to attract digital nomads through a series of incentives and special visas.