Strengthening Chinese, French firms

Cai Mingpo leads Cathay Capital Private Equity's investments in China with long-term focus

Back in the 1990s, Cai Mingpo, 48, was just a "poor Chinese student" in France. Today, he helms the $2 billion Cathay Capital Private Equity.

During his journey from student to president of a PE fund, Cai persuaded a French politician, a former minister, to join Cathay Capital. French media calls him "a miracle". He is often seen chatting and laughing with dignitaries.