Private Equity 24 Hours

Last updated: June 29, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

Private Equity Dealmaking & Strategy

Private equity firms are actively pursuing acquisitions across various sectors, with a notable focus on industrial components and safety services. H.I.G. Capital completed its acquisition of Premier Forge Group, a US manufacturer of mission-critical forged components for aerospace and defense. Similarly, Carr’s Hill-backed Smart Gulf bolstered its offerings by acquiring safety firms AMC Safety and Safe Construction Consulting. These deals suggest a continued appetite for specialized industrial and service-based businesses, even amidst broader economic uncertainties.

In the lower mid-market, investors are finding resilience and value creation opportunities. Fengate's Jennifer Pereira told PE Hub that operational improvement is a key driver in this segment, especially during periods of geopolitical tension and fluctuating interest rates. Pereira emphasized that the current environment rewards cash discipline, pricing power, operational rigor, and leadership maturity, indicating a strategic shift towards efficiency and fundamental strength in deal-making.

Major Transactions & Portfolio Shifts

Significant transactions are reshaping portfolios across the financial services and energy sectors. A JC Flowers-led investor group, including Nowlake Technology, is set to acquire Republic Finance, signaling continued activity in financial services M&A. In the energy infrastructure space, San Mateo Midstream announced its intention to acquire EnCap-backed Cardinal Midstream for $752 million, a move that will consolidate midstream assets for oil and gas infrastructure.

Bridgepoint is expanding its real estate footprint with an agreement to acquire Kayne Anderson Real Estate (KARE), a significant property investment platform, for approximately $1.39 billion. This acquisition marks Bridgepoint's entry into the US real estate market, adding KARE's around $22 billion in assets under management to its portfolio. In a separate transaction, CVC Capital Partners has agreed to acquire Italian B2B food ingredients manufacturer Irca from Advent. This deal follows a period where Irca's revenue quadrupled, highlighting CVC's strategy of acquiring businesses with demonstrated growth.

Fundraising & Investor Trends

While specific details on recent fundraising volumes remain under analysis, data from PEI Group's ranking of the top 300 private equity firms by fundraising volume suggests a potential comeback in the sector. The PEI 300 analysis, featured in a podcast miniseries, offers insights into the current state of capital raising. Separately, major investors like CalPERS, IMAS Foundation, and Aware Super are sharing their preferred reading and podcast recommendations for 2026, offering a glimpse into the content driving LP consumption this year.

Sectoral Focus & Emerging Markets

Private equity is navigating complex dynamics within the defense sector, with political vagaries impacting strategies. A €1.6 billion European entity is reportedly seeking co-investment opportunities with general partners, indicating a desire for strategic partnerships in defense. Meanwhile, venture capital activity shows signs of robust exit markets, with Q2 2026 marking the busiest period for billion-dollar startup exits since the 2021 peak.

Emerging tech hubs are also attracting attention. Spain is being recognized as one of Europe's most dynamic tech ecosystems, suggesting potential for future investment. In the UK, the British Business Bank is set to support scaleups with an annual allocation of £400 million, aiming to transform the nation's tech sector. Furthermore, European deeptech investment has already hit an annual record within the first six months of 2026, underscoring significant growth in advanced technology ventures across the continent.

Firm Appointments & Strategic Growth

Firms are bolstering their investment teams with experienced professionals. Strategic Value Partners appointed Jean Baptiste de Boissieu as a managing director to its European investment team, bringing experience from Davidson Kempner. These strategic hires are aimed at enhancing deal sourcing and execution capabilities in key markets.