This course provides a thorough grounding in the theory and recent developments in the field of private equity. Starting by examining how private equity funds are raised and structured the course will examine how private equity can be used in start-ups, in scaling-up cash flow businesses, and in restructuring firms facing financial distress. The course explores the link between private and venture capital on the one hand and public securities markets on the other. The course will examine the process through which private equity investors exit their investments. The course will also give a detailed analysis of the types of finance used in private equity and an evaluation of the short and long-run performance of private equity investments. The course will include an evaluation of the performance of different types of private equity investment and a comparison with other forms of ownership will be undertaken.