Private equity has become one of the most influential asset classes in global capital markets. Unlike traditional investors, private equity firms actively acquire companies, improve their operational and financial performance, and ultimately realise value through a successful exit.

This course follows the complete private equity investment lifecycle - from the first investment opportunity to the final exit. Students work with authentic private equity situations. Throughout the course, students analyse investment opportunities, evaluate businesses, develop restructuring and optimisation concepts, build financial forecasts and defend recommendations before a simulated investment committee.

The course combines corporate finance, strategy, accounting, operational improvement and leadership. It reflects how private equity professionals evaluate and manage investments.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
• understand the complete private equity investment lifecycle;
• evaluate investment opportunities and develop investment theses;
• analyse companies using strategic, operational and financial criteria;
• assess valuation methods and acquisition financing;
• design operational value creation and restructuring initiatives;
• evaluate exit alternatives and investor returns;
• present and defend investment recommendations before an Investment Committee.

Attendance is mandatory. Students may miss no more than one session. Participation points from a missed session cannot be recovered.

The course combines interactive lectures, case discussions, group work, investment committee simulations and practical exercises. Students work on real private equity cases and apply theoretical concepts to practical investment decisions.

In-class participation (20%)
Individual written examination (40%)
Investment Committee case & presentation (40%)

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During class sessions, office hours by appointment and via e-mail.