CVC Capital Partners Plc Chief Executive Officer Rob Lucas warned that artificial intelligence's impact on private equity portfolios cannot be overstated, calling the technology's disruptive effects both substantial and beneficial for firms that move quickly. Speaking at the SuperReturn International conference in Berlin, Lucas emphasized that managers must be courageous and act fast to prepare portfolio companies for rapid technological change.

The Amsterdam-listed firm partnered with Google Cloud earlier this year to accelerate AI adoption across its portfolio companies spanning retail, healthcare and financial services. However, investor skepticism persists as CVC shares have fallen roughly 10% this year amid concerns about AI's threat to PE-owned assets and the industry's exposure to private credit markets.

Lucas acknowledged significant upfront costs for private equity firms implementing AI solutions, noting that while benefits will prove substantial, the industry hasn't yet fully realized them. CVC manages €209 billion in assets, positioning itself to capitalize on AI-driven transformations across its diversified platform of private equity, secondaries, credit and infrastructure strategies.

Recent deal activity demonstrates CVC's aggressive positioning, including an agreement to acquire International Flavors and Fragrances' food ingredients business and a bid for Recordati SpA valued at over $12 billion. The firm's approach reflects growing recognition that AI adoption will increasingly separate winners from losers in private markets.