Private Equity 24 Hours

Last updated: March 28, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Private Equity Strategy & Deal Flow

The private equity sphere is shifting toward substance following a decade fueled by inexpensive debt, with firms now adopting a more selective investment stance where holding periods are extending, described by one industry observer as “12 is the new.” This recalibration comes as dealmakers are increasingly targeting specific, high-potential sectors; for instance, firms like Astorg, Cinven, and Nordic Capital are among those pursuing five different pathology assets, while Kearney noted a looming “$1 trillion gap” attracting interest toward women’s health investments. Separately, deal activity saw a boost this week from massive technology financings, headlined by OpenAI raising another $10 billion, alongside other substantial rounds for growth-stage firms.

In specific transaction news, Advent is planning to invest in the engineering and consulting firm Atwell, with the deal anticipated to finalize in the second quarter of 2026, demonstrating PE’s continued interest in specialized professional services. In contrast, Advent is preparing a full exit from its investment in the hair care brand Olaplex, announcing its sale to Henkel for $1.4 billion, which will remove the company from the Nasdaq listing upon closing. In Latin America, HIG Capital agreed to divest its Brazilian internet service provider to Claro for approximately $750 million, marking a notable exit in the region’s infrastructure space.

Sector Focus & Technology

Investment activity outside of traditional buyouts continues apace, with Bonaccord making a minority investment in the commercial real estate credit platform Prime Finance to bolster its balance sheet and expand its credit offerings. Meanwhile, major software players are absorbing PE-backed assets, as SAP announced its intent to acquire Reltio, a company previously backed by NewView Capital, with closing expected in mid-2026. The focus on technology remains intense, particularly around artificial intelligence, as firms grapple with how to translate the current hype into tangible business impact for their portfolio companies.

Geographic & Firm Adjustments

While venture funding in Austin, Texas, has reached an all-time high, signaling continued regional strength for early-stage capital deployment, established private equity firms are streamlining operations. European venture firm Speedinvest recently cut 10% of its staff following a period of internal turnover, reflecting broader pressures on operational efficiency even within the VC segment. Concurrently, major investment banks are building out specialized advisory teams; Evercore has established a new Europe-based credit secondaries group, hiring four professionals, including two recruits from PJT, to address growing demand in the less liquid credit markets.