Politically Connected Private Equity and Employment

Abstract

We investigate the employment consequences of private equity buyouts. We find that, on average, buyouts by politically connected private equity firms are associated with higher job creation at the establishments operated by their target firms than buyouts by non-connected private equity firms. Consistent with an exchange of favors story, establishments operated by targets of politically connected private equity firms increase employment more during election years and in states with high levels of corruption. We also provide evidence of specific benefits experienced by target firms from their political connections. Our conclusions are corroborated by tests designed to mitigate selection concerns.

Keywords: Private Equity, Political Connections, Employment

JEL Classification: G24, G3, J23