
Cuatrecasas’ Javier Villansante: Opportunities for PE in the current volatile European climate
Javier explains while the cost of financing remains a challenge, a gradual decline in rates will better equip PE funds to carry out deals.

Javier explains while the cost of financing remains a challenge, a gradual decline in rates will better equip PE funds to carry out deals.

With nearly two decades of experience in dealmaking across Africa, Abimbola Ogundare has built a reputation as a dynamic leader in financial advisory and corporate finance.

With over 14 years of experience, Akinola specializes in financial advisory assignments, including pre-deal support, buy-side and sellside due diligence, SPA support, reporting accounting, and restructuring services.

For over 25 years, Paul Bondi and Giles Douglas have been integral to deal-making across sub-Saharan Africa, navigating the region’s dynamic M&A landscape through cycles of economic boom and bust. As Managing Directors and Co-Heads of Global Advisory at Rothschild & Co South Africa, their careers have been shaped by diverse experiences—Paul, a Chartered Accountant, honed his skills at Fieldstone Private Capital before joining Rothschild & Co in 2006, while Giles, also a Chartered Accountant, started at Coopers & Lybrand in London before building a career in private equity and venture capital. Giles first joined Rothschild & Co in London in 1996 and returned to the South African operations in 2014, cementing a 28-year career in corporate finance.

Sergio shares his perspective on the sectors to watch and how private equity will fuel European M&A in the next 12 months.

Andrea explains how European PE activity is set to rebound significantly, fuelled by record levels of dry powder and the urgency to deploy capital.

Siya reflects on his journey in private equity, highlighting the critical role of empathy alongside technical expertise.

Shabbir reflects on the defining moments of his career, the evolution of deal-making, and the future of M&A in South Africa.

Joost shares how while a US-Europe trade war is a possibility, they are still optimistic that this is unlikely as it is not in the interest of the EU economy.

Witness the evolution of South African dealmaking with Andrew Brooking, from pioneering REIT structures to navigating complex cross-border mergers. Discover how his bold strategies and unwavering resilience have defined a generation of property sector growth.

From navigating high-stakes transactions to breaking barriers for women in law, Sally Hutton's journey exemplifies leadership and resilience. Learn how her strategic vision and dedication to excellence continue to shape the future of private equity in South Africa.

Miguel explains how AI is having a transformative impact across the whole of society, and how the dealmaking process is no exception.

Hans-Jörg sees potential for growth in German M&A amidst global FDI scrutiny and valuation challenges.

A wave of insolvencies is imminent, according to expert restructuring firm – so how can Directors worldwide turn the impacts of COVID into long-lasting, positive change? Virgin Australia, Travelex and Europoles demonstrate how it’s done.

We interviewed twelve leading M&A dealmakers across regions and industries to get their predictions and trends to watch for the year ahead.