Private equity investment in Scotland grew by 35.6% in 2024, reaching £9.4bn, according to KPMG UK’s latest report.
The increase reflects improved economic stability, lower inflation, and a surge in deal activity ahead of expected tax changes. The number of private equity deals in Scotland also rose from 92 to 111, with Edinburgh and Glasgow securing high-value transactions.
Across the UK, private equity deal activity rebounded, with total investments reaching £158.9bn, up nearly 12% from 2023. Most deals took place in the second half of the year, hitting the highest levels since early 2022. Business services led deal activity, while the technology, media, and telecommunications sector saw the fastest growth, with deal values surging 58% to over £40bn.
Financial services and energy sectors also performed well despite lower deal volumes, contributing a higher share of total investment value. Consumer goods and retail showed signs of recovery, with deal values increasing 21% to £10.7bn.
With declining interest rates and growing investor confidence, private equity activity in Scotland and the UK is expected to continue expanding in 2025.
Source: Edinburgh News
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