ft.com · 28 Sep, 04:00 · Finance briefing

Rich turn to borrowing against private equity holdings as payouts slow

High-net-worth individuals are increasingly utilising private equity holdings as collateral for loans, a trend accelerated by reduced capital distributions from funds.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

High-net-worth individuals are increasingly utilising private equity holdings as collateral for loans, a trend accelerated by reduced capital distributions from funds. This shift reflects a broader strategy to maintain liquidity without triggering tax liabilities associated with asset sales. As traditional payout cycles lengthen, wealthy clients seek alternative financing mechanisms to fund lifestyle expenses or new investments. This development signals a structural change in how ultra-wealthy portfolios are managed, prioritising immediate access to capital over waiting for eventual exit events or dividend payments from private investments.

Employer demand for Finance and Accounting skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

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This shift demands heightened expertise in alternative finance and wealth structuring. If you advise high-net-worth clients, you must understand the nuances of secured lending against illiquid assets. Professionals in private banking and investment advisory should prioritise skills in complex financial modelling and regulatory compliance. You need to anticipate client liquidity needs before they arise. Develop proficiency in assessing collateral value for private equity stakes. Network with credit specialists who understand non-traditional assets. Upskill in risk assessment for leveraged positions. This trend favours those who can offer holistic liquidity solutions rather than simple investment advice. Stay ahead by mastering the intersection of private credit and wealth management.

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Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

Matched to this story

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