Similarities between Madonna and the private equity industry might not be immediately apparent, but both are well known for their talent for reinvention.

Both, too, had a difficult 2008. Madonna separated from her husband Guy Ritchie, reportedly paying a UK record settlement. The buyout industry also went through a painful break-up, splitting from debt financing after the relationship ultimately proved to be too destructive. Recent commitment defaults have caused a commotion and suggest firms' relationships with their investors could be under strain.