Private Equity 24 Hours

Last updated: June 26, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

AI & Venture Capital Fueling Megadeals and New Funds

The artificial intelligence sector continues to dominate startup funding, with several megadeals announced this week driving another spree. Beyond AI, biotechnology also emerged as a significant area for venture capital investment. This trend is further solidified by news that MGX is raising close to $50 billion for one of the largest dedicated AI funds ever established, signaling strong investor confidence in the technology's future. Berlin-based Peec AI is also reportedly targeting a $200 million valuation in its latest fundraising round sources indicate.

Private Equity Activity Across Sectors

Private equity firms remain active across a diverse range of industries. In the technology and media space, CVC Capital Partners' Fund IX is backing Chess.com, the world's largest online chess platform, joining General Atlantic on the investor register. Similarly, Permira and Warburg Pincus have completed an $8.4 billion take-private of Clearwater Analytics, a U.S. investment management software provider. In a move that could signal a significant shift in the Japanese market, Bain Capital and LY Corporation are preparing a rival bid for Kakaku.com, challenging EQT's existing offer for the Japanese price-comparison group.

Strategic Partnerships and Advisory Roles

Strategic collaborations and advisory roles are also gaining traction within the private equity world. Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has been appointed a global strategic advisor by General Atlantic, where he will work closely with the firm's leadership, portfolio companies, and investors as announced. Meanwhile, CPP Investments and Blackstone Credit & Insurance have anchored Element Fleet Management's funding program, committing to provide flexible financing solutions.

M&A Activity and Portfolio Company Exits

Acquisitions and potential divestitures are shaping portfolios. Partners Group-backed SureWerx has acquired Italy's Genesi, a provider of work-at-height and confined space safety products. In the UK, Warburg Pincus is set to acquire Network Plus, a utility and infrastructure service provider. The radiology sector continues to attract attention, with Archimed, HCAP, Hg, and Kain Capital among firms pursuing transactions in this area, alongside deals involving Latticework Capital and Edgehill-backed Life Science Connect in the CDMO space as reported. L Catterton is exploring a sale of Thorne, the U.S. supplements maker, that could value the business at up to $4 billion, with Unilever reportedly among interested bidders. Finally, Permira is nearing an exit from Reformation as the sustainable womenswear brand files for a New York Stock Exchange IPO.

Venture Capital Investments and Fund Pacing

Beyond the megadeals, smaller venture rounds and investor pacing plans are also noteworthy. Norwest has invested in East Range Group, a high-purity water systems firm, providing capital for expansion. ParkSouth Ventures-backed Infinite has acquired Greentarget UK, a financial and professional services communications agency. In broader market trends, Ohio STRS has set a private equity pacing plan for fiscal year 2027, seeking to commit up to $1.5 billion in new private equity capital. Investors are also discussing strategies for funding more Black founders, with six investors offering advice for overlooked entrepreneurs. Seed rounds that may have been missed in the first half of the year are also being cataloged as noted.

Secondary Markets and Emerging Opportunities

The secondary market is seeing activity, with Kline Hill leading on Plaza Ventures' CV for digital advertising company Stack Adapt. This deal provides Plaza Ventures with additional time to manage Stack Adapt amidst AI-driven market shifts, with the investment considered one of the highest-returning Canadian venture deals on record. Smart city assets are also presenting long-term growth prospects, with Lincoln and Apollo featuring in discussions about strong outcomes from these investments. Voice-controlled drone startups are also drawing backing from investors like Lakestar and Seedcamp.