By Andrew Moyle and Stuart Davis

Growth in applications for blockchain and tokenisation, combined with an increasing number of initial coin offerings (ICOs), mean that buyout firms should note developments in this sector.

Why Should PE Be Interested in Blockchain?

A shared blockchain ledger could drive a single interface between a PE fund and its investors, increasing transparency and efficiency, providing real-time updates for LPs on investments, and enhanced investment analytics. Blockchain technology could also be used to automate fund administration — traditionally a manual and time intensive process. However, back- and middle office process at PE houses are typically low volume, low margin activities, in our view limiting any cost and efficiency savings for a PE fund. Furthermore, investors and regulators will scrutinize any blockchain solution and the operational risks inherent in new technology implementation.

A more interesting development for PE is the trend towards tokenisation of financial assets. Tokenisation refers to the manufacture, issuance, storage, and transfer of digital assets on a blockchain infrastructure. Digital assets can take any form, e.g., shares or bonds, profit participation rights, fund interests, or a hybrid instrument that automatically converts from one instrument to another on the occurrence of a pre-defined trigger.