NBGI: “Sees” investment opportunities despite the crisis

NBGI Private Equity, the investment arm of the National Bank of Greece group, is focusing on the healthy sector of acquisitions as the private equity market rebounds from a long period of stagnation.

“The economic and fiscal difficulties in Greece have not affected the group’s appetite for investments,” said Mark Owen, founder of NBGI Private Equity based in London, in an interview with Dow Jones Newswires.

It is noted that the National Bank has reduced its borrowing from the European Central Bank in recent months, while the Tier 1 ratio stands at 11.8%, higher than the 7% required by Basel III.

Owen mentioned that the company has “seen” more investment opportunities in the UK in recent months compared to any other period in the last three years.

“There is definitely a new wave of assets entering the market – owners feel that now is the right time,” emphasized Owen.

NBGI invests in a variety of sectors and companies, including Pasta King, Ochre House, as well as Jamies and Henry J Beans stores. Meanwhile, in Southeast Europe, NBGI’s investments include AKTO college and Mermeren, as well as the Turkish company Sante, which was acquired in January.

SOURCE: www.capital.gr