This week we continue our conversation with Ilan Nissan. Mr. Nissan is a senior partner in Goodwin’s internationally recognized private equity and mergers and acquisitions business. His clients include global alternative asset managers including top tier private equity funds, venture funds, venture capital funds, bank holding companies, hedge funds and family offices. In addition to his work with clients, Mr. Nissan sits on the firm’s Executive Committee and leads the practice in New York. Second of two parts – View part one

The Lead Left: How about fundraising. How has that changed?

Ilan Nissan: If you’re a spin-off or a first time fund, it’s hard to raise money. There are too many established players with strong track records. It’s easier to go with an established platform. But for established funds – sized between $500 million and $2 billion – these are the people who have been flourishing.

TLL: What kind of things do investors look for in a successful fund?

IN: The due diligence is becoming more comprehensive. Are they investing in diverse businesses? Are they run by women? By minorities? Also, there is increasing focus on staying away from certain asset classes (notably weapons). We haven’t seen that as much before. Returns are still king, of course.