In the past, companies looking for alternative funding would have tried their luck with venture capital and private equity firms. But the advent of crowdfunding—which offers Main Street investors the ability to make equity investments in growing businesses—has given some companies a boost they might not have gotten from using the typical sources. … READ MORE >
Financial services
Latest C-corporation conversion announcement follows trend with largest alternative asset managers
Carlyle Group LP, among the world’s largest private equity firms, is expected to announce it conversion to a C-corporation from a publicly trade partnership during its second-quarter earnings call on July 31. It is the latest alternative asset manager to make a conversion that may not add up for the middle market. … READ MORE >
SEC’s move to redefine high-net-worth investors may broaden investor base down the road
A new government proposal to loosen restrictions on who qualifies as the high-net-worth individuals known as accredited investors could be a boon to asset managers seeking new sources of capital. … READ MORE >
Managers fear heavy costs following SEC’s proposed fund-of-funds rule change
A proposed federal rule would expand the ability of investment funds to boost their portfolios in other funds. But critics say it would require significant fund restructuring by the funds and burden investors. … READ MORE >
Want a fuller picture of biotech’s promise? Look beyond the public markets
The biotech ecosystem and the capital markets in which it operates are complex; viewing this sector through the lens of the public markets doesn’t provide a complete picture of its promise to investors. … READ MORE >
Data breaches are down but more effective
While the number of data breaches per year has doubled in the last decade, there were significantly fewer breaches in 2018 compared to 2017 (see chart below). Unfortunately, cybercriminals have had greater success in accessing sensitive personal and corporate data. … READ MORE >
Health care deal outlook for 2019 good, despite slow start to year–panel
Health care deals are down to start 2019, but the outlook is good, largely due to of the amount of dry powder on the sidelines, a recent panel of private equity professionals noted earlier this month. … READ MORE >
Innovation is now part of the insurance ratings mix
Innovation appears to have reached the risk-averse insurance industry. A few weeks ago A.M. Best issued a press release seeking comment on draft criteria for scoring and assessing innovation at the insurance companies it rates. It could lead to an innovation ratings system. … READ MORE >
Rising interest rates seen causing asset managers to recalibrate
Policymakers believe the economy is on a strong footing, but the pace of rate increases going forward remains uncertain, and the effects on asset management could be significant. The Federal Open Market Committee is set to meet on Dec. 19, and an interest rate increase of 25-basis-points appears to be 75 percent likely … READ MORE >