The concept of ‘trophy’ investing is driving more rich private investors to take the lead on private equity deals, says law firm Boodle Hatfield.

In 2019, there were 18 publicly disclosed high-value PE deals led by individuals with more than $30 million, following 21 such deals in 2018.

Boodle Hatfield said it was common for such investors to look for a deal that aligned with a personal interest, such as Swiss medical device entrepreneur Hansjörg Wyss’ purchase of the Glenturret whisky distillery, alongside luxury goods business Lalique.

There were also three football clubs (Blackpool, Huddersfield Town...