Glossary & framework library

Waterfall analysis

Investment

Reference

Modelling how each dollar of distributable cash flows through the distribution waterfall tiers to quantify what the LP and GP each receive at different return outcomes.

Related terms

  • Yield

    The annual return on an asset expressed as a percentage of its value; closely related to the cap rate.

  • Yield compression

    A fall in market yields (cap rates), which pushes asset values up for the same income — a tailwind that has driven gains in prime Gulf markets during liquidity…

  • Yield expansion

    A rise in market yields (cap rates), which lowers asset values for the same income; typically driven by rising interest rates or perceived risk.

  • Yield on cost (development yield)

    Stabilised net operating income divided by total development cost; compared against the market cap rate to judge whether building creates value over buying.

  • Blended return

    A single return figure combining differently-priced tranches or investments — for example weighting senior debt and equity — to express the overall economics o…

  • Blind pool

    A fund that raises capital before its specific assets are identified, so LPs commit based on the sponsor's track record and strategy rather than a known portfo…

  • Capital call

    A formal notice requiring an LP to wire a portion of its committed capital by a set date; missing one triggers default penalties that can dilute or forfeit the…

  • Capital contribution

    Money an investor actually pays into a fund or deal against its total commitment, usually made in instalments as the sponsor draws it down.