Latest on Carlyle European Buyout - Have they got any chance after the restructuring? how is fundraising going?
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, Carlyle has faced challenges in recent years, particularly with leadership and performance issues. Their European Buyout team, like other parts of the firm, has been navigating a tough fundraising environment. While Carlyle had previously planned a record $26 billion buyout fundraise, the timing of the downturn has made it difficult for funds starting fundraising efforts recently. Allocators are reducing private equity exposure to maintain portfolio balance, which has impacted fundraising across the industry.
Carlyle's restructuring efforts and leadership changes have been noted, but there seems to be skepticism about their ability to regain top-tier status. Their performance has been described as "blah"—not disastrous but not exceptional either. Additionally, their announcements about weaker fundraising targets for the next decade suggest they are not currently competing at the level of top funds like Blackstone or KKR, which continue to beat targets despite extended timelines.
In summary, Carlyle's European Buyout team faces significant hurdles, and while restructuring might help, the broader challenges in fundraising and performance could limit their chances of a strong comeback in the near term.
Sources: Updated view on Carlyle (specifically TMT Group)?, Carlyle would be so cool if it were better and I wish it was, , Carlyle would be so cool if it were better and I wish it was, Partners Group AG vs. Carlyle Group
Sinking ship if we are talking specifically about this fund series. They report on their performance every quarter you can check for yourself.
I know - I am wondering whether they have a fighting chance to recover? They are fundraising and changed most of the senior team, allegedly did a couple of decent deals lately
Given the sustained period of underperformance I think they have a very though decade ahead. They will likely keep selling a European product but I don’t think that is the greatest place to be if you have other options
Very bad - dude their EU IRR is like ~2% over the last 15 years, in the best years for PE ever...
What went wrong with their investments / in their DD?
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