The present work examines the economics and legal doctrine of private equity. After a consideration of private equity's origins, the book will explore the evolution of private equity in the United States and Europe. The reference economic model then will be reconstructed, with particular attention to financial flows to and from private equity firms and funds. This reconstruction will be instrumental for the subsequent analysis of remunerative policies and practices of private equity firms and the illustration of recommendations to improve them, especially following the subprime mortgage crisis of 2008. The book concludes with critical points for operators, legislators, and regulatory authorities in the light of the results of the economic analysis of private equity and of comparative regulatory analysis.