Middle market LBO purchase price multiples declined in 1Q23

LSEG (1)
Content hub / Article / LSEG / Middle market LBO purchase price multiples declined in 1Q23

Middle market LBO purchase price multiples declined from 12.3 times in 2022 to 11.4 times in 1Q23, the lowest level since 3Q20. While purchase price multiples declined, the equity multiple was only down minimally, to 7.3 times, from 7.4 times in 2022. In contrast, the leverage component dropped to 4.1 times in 1Q23 from 4.9 times in 2022. With leverage declining more than purchase price multiples, the loan-to-enterprise value levels on middle market LBOs declined to 38% in 1Q23, the lowest level on record since at least 1Q15.

(Past performance is no guarantee of future results.)

Contact Diana Diquez
Business development companies and the rise of balance sheet financing vehicles

Podcast

Business development companies and the rise of balance sheet financing vehicles

Fitch's Deb Murnin and Chelsea Richardson discuss the growing use of off-balance-sheet JVs and finance companies among BDCs, exploring the drivers, leverage impacts, portfolio risk profiles, and potential rating implications for Fitch-rated BDCs.
Listen
Private Debt Investor New York Forum

September 15-16, Hudson Yards, New York

Private Debt Investor New York Forum

Bringing together the investors, managers and advisers shaping the next phase of the market — 200+ allocators and $10.6 trillion of LP capital expected. Benchmark strategies, hear from leading LPs, and cut through market noise over two unmissable days.
Learn more
US Private Credit League Tables H1'26

Report

US Private Credit League Tables H1'26

The definitive rankings covering private credit activity in H1'26.
Download
PitchBook's Q2 2026 US PE Breakdown

Report

PitchBook's Q2 2026 US PE Breakdown

Software freezes and energy powers on as US PE deal value falls 38% in Q2 2026.
Download
Making sense of private credit defaults

Webinar

Making sense of private credit defaults

What does private credit default data really tell us? Join our exclusive webinar featuring experts from KBRA, Moody's, Fitch Ratings, and S&P Global to find out.
Register

Latest news

    Rate Hike Expectations Regain Steam following Jackson Hole

    The CME six-month Term SOFR rate reached a recent high of 3.979% on July 28 before retreating to 3.821% as…

    Read More

    Private Credit Defaults 101: Back to School

    As Labor Day approaches, the unofficial end of summer is upon us. But, before we get too sad, there is also the familiar back-to-school energy.

    Read More

    Grading on a Curve

    Grades depend on how the questions get answered.

    Read More