Despite the higher debt held by Numericable and Merlin Entertainments compared to average traded European firms, both companies had buyers rushing after they went public. France-based cable provider Numericable increased 10%  during their first trading day on November 8. Britain-based theme park operator Numericable also posted a 15% jump on their November 8 debut.

Blackstone Group, CVC Capital Partners and Kirkbi are the private equity owners of Merlin which raised GBP 957 million or USD 1.5 billion for its initial public offering in London. Meanwhile, Numericable was able to gather EUR 652.2 million or USD 872 million for its IPO in Paris. Numericable is owned by private equity companies Carlyle Group, Cinven and Altice Finco. Two sources told Bloomberg that both companies had sufficient demand for all the shares they put up for sale on the first day.

In an interview with Bloomberg, Cinven Partner Peter Catterall said robust demand for Numericable's stock given its capital structure was a reflection that the company was appropriately levered. Meanwhile, Blackstone Principal Thomas Zimmerhaeckel said about Merlin, "What stands out compared to any other offer this year is that from 2009 Merlin began to report like a public company, giving annual reports and trading statements."

According to a report by Bloomberg, the IPO success of both Merlin and Numericable would enable other private equity firms hold their European debuts. Data gathered by Bloomberg showed that the IPO amount raised in the European markets was about double this year compared to that raised last year.

In an interview with Bloomberg, Harry Hampson said, "Investors have a higher risk appetite now, and that's helping IPOs get done." Hampson is the head of a team from JPMorgan Chase & co that advises European private equity companies. He added that private equity-backed IPOs next year may be similar to the highs experienced in 2007 as owners plan to exit their investments.