Key Insights
The European private equity funds market, valued at €150 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by several key factors. A significant driver is the increasing availability of capital from both institutional and high-net-worth investors seeking higher returns than traditional asset classes. Furthermore, favorable regulatory environments in several key European nations, coupled with a growing number of attractive investment opportunities across various sectors (e.g., technology, healthcare, and renewable energy), are fueling market expansion. The market is segmented by investment type (large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap) and application (early-stage venture capital, private equity, leveraged buyout), reflecting diverse investor strategies and risk appetites. Leading players like SoftBank Vision Fund, Permira, and Partners Group are shaping the market landscape through their significant investments and deal-making activities. Competition is intense, with numerous established and emerging players vying for market share.
The market's 5.12% CAGR (2025-2033) suggests sustained, albeit moderate, growth over the forecast period. This growth trajectory is expected to be influenced by macroeconomic conditions, including interest rate fluctuations and overall economic performance across Europe. Potential restraints include geopolitical uncertainty, regulatory changes impacting private equity investment, and fluctuations in investor sentiment. However, the long-term outlook remains positive, supported by the ongoing trend of institutional capital flows into private equity and the persistent need for capital in growth-oriented European businesses. The continued emergence of innovative investment strategies and technological advancements within the private equity industry will also contribute to the market's evolution. Germany, France, and the UK are expected to remain dominant regional markets, given their robust economies and established private equity ecosystems.
European Private Equity Funds Market Report: 2019-2033
This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the European Private Equity Funds market, offering invaluable insights for investors, fund managers, and industry stakeholders. Covering the period from 2019 to 2033, with a focus on 2025, this report meticulously examines market dynamics, key players, and future trends. The study period (2019-2024) and forecast period (2025-2033) allows for a thorough understanding of historical performance and future projections. The report incorporates data on market size (in Millions of USD), CAGR, and other key metrics.

European Private Equity Funds Market Market Concentration & Dynamics
The European Private Equity Funds market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with several dominant players and a growing number of smaller, specialized firms. Market share is largely dictated by fund size, investment strategy, and track record. While precise market share figures for each firm are commercially sensitive and not publicly available, key players like SoftBank Vision Fund, Permira, and Partners Group hold significant influence. The market's dynamic nature is driven by several factors:
- Innovation Ecosystems: A thriving ecosystem of startups and innovative businesses fuels deal flow for private equity firms. This is particularly evident in the technology and healthcare sectors.
- Regulatory Frameworks: EU regulations, particularly concerning competition and investment protection, significantly impact market operations. Changes in regulatory frameworks can influence investment strategies and deal flow.
- Substitute Products/Investment Alternatives: Competition exists from other asset classes like public equities, real estate, and infrastructure investments. Fluctuations in relative returns influence investor allocations.
- End-User Trends: Increasing demand for alternative investments from institutional investors (pension funds, insurance companies) and high-net-worth individuals drive market growth.
- Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Activity: The European private equity landscape is characterized by significant M&A activity, with both strategic acquisitions and consolidation among firms. The number of M&A deals has fluctuated year-on-year, averaging approximately xx deals annually over the historical period, exhibiting a slight upward trend.
European Private Equity Funds Market Industry Insights & Trends
The European Private Equity Funds market witnessed substantial growth in the historical period (2019-2024), with the market size reaching xx Million in 2024. This growth is anticipated to continue throughout the forecast period (2025-2033), driven by several key factors:
- Increased Investor Appetite: Institutional investors increasingly allocate funds to private equity, attracted by higher potential returns compared to public markets.
- Technological Disruptions: Technological advancements create new investment opportunities and transform existing businesses, leading to increased private equity investment in sectors like fintech and AI.
- Evolving Consumer Behaviors: Changes in consumer preferences and spending patterns shape investment opportunities across various sectors, driving sector-specific private equity activity. The shift to digital commerce and the growing importance of sustainability are key trends.
- Favorable Economic Conditions: Periods of economic expansion generally contribute to increased investment activity. However, macroeconomic conditions like interest rates and inflation also impact market performance.
The market is expected to register a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033), reaching a projected market size of xx Million by 2033.

Key Markets & Segments Leading European Private Equity Funds Market
The European private equity market is geographically diverse, with significant activity across several countries. However, certain regions and segments consistently exhibit greater activity than others:
Dominant Regions: The UK, Germany, and France represent the largest markets within Europe, accounting for a combined xx% of the total market size in 2024. This is attributable to factors such as a well-established financial infrastructure, strong entrepreneurial ecosystems, and high levels of investor activity.
Dominant Investment Types: Large cap investments continue to be a prominent segment, representing xx% of the total investment volume in 2024. However, mid-cap and small-cap investments have also seen significant growth, driven by the emergence of innovative businesses and increased availability of venture capital.
Dominant Application Areas: Leverage buyout remains a significant area of focus, followed by private equity investments. While early-stage venture capital is growing rapidly, it accounts for a smaller portion of total investment compared to other categories.
Drivers for Growth (in various segments):
- Economic Growth: Strong economic growth in specific regions positively correlates with increased private equity investment.
- Infrastructure Development: Investment in infrastructure projects across Europe presents opportunities for private equity funds.
- Government Policies: Supportive government policies, including tax incentives and regulations, attract investment.
- Technological Advancements: The ongoing digital transformation creates many opportunities for investment in tech-related businesses.
European Private Equity Funds Market Product Developments
The European private equity market is characterized by continuous product innovation, primarily driven by the need to adapt to evolving market dynamics and achieve higher returns. This includes the development of specialized funds targeting specific industries, regions, or investment strategies (e.g., impact investing, sustainability-focused funds). These adaptations provide increased competitive advantages and address emerging market demands. Technological advancements in data analytics and portfolio management also aid in enhancing investment performance.
Challenges in the European Private Equity Funds Market Market
The European private equity market faces various challenges, including:
- Regulatory Scrutiny: Increased regulatory scrutiny regarding competition and investor protection can create uncertainty and impact deal execution.
- Geopolitical Uncertainty: Global geopolitical events and economic instability can impact investor sentiment and investment decisions.
- Competitive Pressure: The market's competitive nature puts pressure on fund managers to achieve strong returns to attract investors. The influx of new entrants further intensifies this competition.
- Valuation Concerns: Market valuations can fluctuate, creating challenges in finding suitable deals at reasonable prices.
Forces Driving European Private Equity Funds Market Growth
Key growth drivers include:
- Technological Innovation: Continuous technological advancements create new investment opportunities and redefine various industries.
- Favorable Economic Conditions: Periods of robust economic growth generally translate to higher investor confidence and deal flow.
- Government Initiatives: Government support for innovation and investment through tax incentives and funding programs can stimulate growth.
Challenges in the European Private Equity Funds Market Market
Long-term growth hinges on adaptation and innovation. Strategies for sustained growth include:
- Focus on ESG factors: Increasing emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, driving demand for funds that align with sustainable investment strategies.
- Technological Adoption: Embracing technology in investment processes to enhance efficiency and decision-making.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with other industry players to expand reach and expertise.
Emerging Opportunities in European Private Equity Funds Market
Emerging opportunities include:
- Focus on sustainable and impact investing: This growing area offers high returns while addressing environmental and social challenges.
- Expansion into new markets: Exploring untapped opportunities in less developed European countries.
- Leveraging technology: Using data analytics and AI to identify profitable investment opportunities and optimize portfolio management.
Leading Players in the European Private Equity Funds Sector
- SoftBank Vision Fund
- Permira
- Partners Group
- IXO Private Equity
- Spring Hill Management
- AXA Private Equity
- Oakley Capital
- Heartland
- CVC Capital Partners
- Accent Equity Partners
- Other Key Players (List Not Exhaustive)
- Apax Partners
Key Milestones in European Private Equity Funds Market Industry
- February 2023: Oakley Capital raises a record Euro 2.85 Billion (USD 3.13 Billion) for its fifth flagship fund, signaling continued strong investor confidence in the market and Oakley's investment strategies focused on long-term megatrends.
- February 2023: Apax's pursuit of a significant stake in a USD 2.1 billion company highlights ongoing M&A activity and the strategic repositioning of players within the market.
Strategic Outlook for European Private Equity Funds Market Market
The future of the European Private Equity Funds market appears promising, fueled by the continued growth of alternative investments, technological advancements, and the increasing focus on sustainable and impact investing. Strategic opportunities exist for firms that can adapt to evolving market demands, leverage technological advancements, and foster strong partnerships. The market's continued growth relies on navigating regulatory landscapes, adapting to economic shifts, and capitalizing on emerging trends.
European Private Equity Funds Market Segmentation
-
1. Investment Type
- 1.1. Large Cap
- 1.2. Mid Cap
- 1.3. Small Cap
-
2. Application
- 2.1. Early Stage Venture Capital Investment
- 2.2. Private Equity
- 2.3. Leverage Buyout
European Private Equity Funds Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Italy
- 2. Germany
- 3. France
- 4. Switzerland
- 5. United Kingdom
- 6. Rest of Europe

European Private Equity Funds Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 5.12% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Increasing Demand for Life Insurance is Driving the Market; Increasing Digital Adoption in the Insurance Industry is Driving the Market
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Increasing Cost Acts as a Restraint to the Market
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Family Owned Companies Witnessing Majority Shareholding in Private Equity Industry of Europe
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 5.1.1. Large Cap
- 5.1.2. Mid Cap
- 5.1.3. Small Cap
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.2.1. Early Stage Venture Capital Investment
- 5.2.2. Private Equity
- 5.2.3. Leverage Buyout
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Italy
- 5.3.2. Germany
- 5.3.3. France
- 5.3.4. Switzerland
- 5.3.5. United Kingdom
- 5.3.6. Rest of Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 6. Italy European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 6.1.1. Large Cap
- 6.1.2. Mid Cap
- 6.1.3. Small Cap
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.2.1. Early Stage Venture Capital Investment
- 6.2.2. Private Equity
- 6.2.3. Leverage Buyout
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 7. Germany European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 7.1.1. Large Cap
- 7.1.2. Mid Cap
- 7.1.3. Small Cap
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.2.1. Early Stage Venture Capital Investment
- 7.2.2. Private Equity
- 7.2.3. Leverage Buyout
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 8. France European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 8.1.1. Large Cap
- 8.1.2. Mid Cap
- 8.1.3. Small Cap
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.2.1. Early Stage Venture Capital Investment
- 8.2.2. Private Equity
- 8.2.3. Leverage Buyout
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 9. Switzerland European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 9.1.1. Large Cap
- 9.1.2. Mid Cap
- 9.1.3. Small Cap
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.2.1. Early Stage Venture Capital Investment
- 9.2.2. Private Equity
- 9.2.3. Leverage Buyout
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 10. United Kingdom European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 10.1.1. Large Cap
- 10.1.2. Mid Cap
- 10.1.3. Small Cap
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10.2.1. Early Stage Venture Capital Investment
- 10.2.2. Private Equity
- 10.2.3. Leverage Buyout
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 11. Rest of Europe European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 11.1.1. Large Cap
- 11.1.2. Mid Cap
- 11.1.3. Small Cap
- 11.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 11.2.1. Early Stage Venture Capital Investment
- 11.2.2. Private Equity
- 11.2.3. Leverage Buyout
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Investment Type
- 12. Germany European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. France European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. Italy European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. United Kingdom European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Netherlands European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Sweden European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 18. Rest of Europe European Private Equity Funds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 19. Competitive Analysis
- 19.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 19.2. Company Profiles
- 19.2.1 Soft Bank Vision Fund
- 19.2.1.1. Overview
- 19.2.1.2. Products
- 19.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.2 Permira and Partners Group
- 19.2.2.1. Overview
- 19.2.2.2. Products
- 19.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.3 IXO Private Equity
- 19.2.3.1. Overview
- 19.2.3.2. Products
- 19.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.4 Spring Hill Management
- 19.2.4.1. Overview
- 19.2.4.2. Products
- 19.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.5 AXA Private Equity
- 19.2.5.1. Overview
- 19.2.5.2. Products
- 19.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.6 Oakley Capital
- 19.2.6.1. Overview
- 19.2.6.2. Products
- 19.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.7 Heartland
- 19.2.7.1. Overview
- 19.2.7.2. Products
- 19.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.8 CVC Capital Partners
- 19.2.8.1. Overview
- 19.2.8.2. Products
- 19.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.9 Accent Equity Partners*
- 19.2.9.1. Overview
- 19.2.9.2. Products
- 19.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.10 Other Key Players*List Not Exhaustive
- 19.2.10.1. Overview
- 19.2.10.2. Products
- 19.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.11 Apax Partners
- 19.2.11.1. Overview
- 19.2.11.2. Products
- 19.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.1 Soft Bank Vision Fund
List of Figures
- Figure 1: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: European Private Equity Funds Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Investment Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Germany European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: France European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Italy European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: United Kingdom European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Netherlands European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Sweden European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Rest of Europe European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Investment Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Investment Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Investment Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Investment Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Investment Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Investment Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: European Private Equity Funds Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the European Private Equity Funds Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 5.12%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the European Private Equity Funds Market?
Key companies in the market include Soft Bank Vision Fund, Permira and Partners Group, IXO Private Equity, Spring Hill Management, AXA Private Equity, Oakley Capital, Heartland, CVC Capital Partners, Accent Equity Partners*, Other Key Players*List Not Exhaustive, Apax Partners.
3. What are the main segments of the European Private Equity Funds Market?
The market segments include Investment Type, Application.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 150 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Increasing Demand for Life Insurance is Driving the Market; Increasing Digital Adoption in the Insurance Industry is Driving the Market.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Family Owned Companies Witnessing Majority Shareholding in Private Equity Industry of Europe.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Increasing Cost Acts as a Restraint to the Market.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
In February 2023, Oakley Capital raises a record Euro 2.85 Billion (USD 3.13 Billion) for its fifth flagship fund. Oakley will continue to invest behind the long-term megatrends that have underpinned growth and returns across economic cycles, including the consumer shift to online, business migration to the Cloud, and the growing global demand for quality, accessible education.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "European Private Equity Funds Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the European Private Equity Funds Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the European Private Equity Funds Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the European Private Equity Funds Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence