Private equity funds took in $246 billion in 2009, the smallest annual total since 2004 and a 61% decline from last year, according to alternative industry data provider Preqin (formerly known as Private Equity Intelligence).
The money was raised by 462 funds, and 40% of investors surveyed by Preqin did not make any allocation to private equity in 2008.
North America copped the bulk of the money, attracting $145 billion. Funds focusing on Europe raised $74 billion, and bringing up the rear was Asia and the rest of the world, with $27 billion.
By fund type, buyout ...