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Concepts

December 31, 2017

5 min read

Understanding Private Equity Waterfalls, Clawbacks, and Catch-Up Clauses

In private equity, a 'waterfall' refers to the priority sequence in...

In private equity, a 'waterfall' refers to the priority sequence in which profits from an investment are distributed among the general partners (GPs) and limited partners (LPs). It's akin to a multi-tiered waterfall, where the water - the profits in this analogy - cascades down different levels, each representing a phase in the profit distribution process.

Consider an example: A real estate fund acquires a property, invests in improvements, and then sells it at a profit. According to a typical 'European Waterfall' structure, the first tier - the top of our waterfall - ensures the return of the original capital to the LPs. The second tier provides the LPs with their preferred return, a predefined percentage on their initial investment.

Only after these two levels are satisfied does the waterfall flow to the third tier. Here, the remaining profits, often called 'excess profits,' are divided between the LPs and GPs. It's common for this split to favor the GPs, typically around an 80-20 LP-GP ratio, incentivizing fund managers to exceed the preferred return threshold.

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February 6, 2024

7 min read

Financial Analysis in Multifamily Syndication

In multifamily syndication, where investors pool their resources to invest in...

In multifamily syndication, where investors pool their resources to invest in apartment complexes or similar properties, mastering financial analysis is not just a skill but a necessity. This analysis forms the backbone of informed decision-making, guiding investors through the complexities of profitability, stability, and investment viability. Let's delve into the intricacies of financial analysis in real estate, exploring its purpose, key components, and crucial role in strategic decision-making.

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