Credit facilities in private equity, often referred to as “subscription lines” (SL), have become a topic of interest, sparking debates not only among researchers but also among practitioners. In this paper, we are the first to analyze their potential thoroughly by quantifying the impact on both final fund performance and fund rankings. In addition, we are the first to academically describe and explain the key terms of SL in detail. Based on our simulations, we find that standard SL have moderate effects on final fund performance as well as fund rankings and constitute mainly a cash flow management tool. However, if used more extensively, SL have the potential to increase time-sensitive return measures substantially and can thereby also alter fund rankings. Consequently, if not properly understood by investors, extended SL could distort future fundraising outcomes. In addition, the higher reported performance may mislead investors with regard to the BO industry’s true skill and return opportunities.
The CEFS Working Paper can be found here.