Private Equity 24 Hours

Last updated: July 1, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Mega-Funds and Strategic Acquisitions Shape Private Equity

Private equity firms have been active in deploying capital across various sectors, with several large-scale transactions and fund closes defining the past 24 hours. KKR agreed to acquire EDF's North American renewables arm for $4.2 billion, potentially including further payments of up to $390 million, marking a significant bet on clean energy infrastructure. In parallel, KKR is also taking control of a $1.3 billion renewable energy platform in South Korea, aiming to establish the nation's largest clean power business in partnership with SK to support the country's AI build-out. This dual focus on renewables underscores a broader trend of large-cap firms investing heavily in sustainable and AI-enabling infrastructure.

Fundraising and Investor Activity

The fundraising environment remains dynamic, with established players announcing substantial closes and significant investor mandates surfacing. Hamilton Lane closed its sixth direct equity fund at $3.8 billion, its largest to date, alongside its Equity Opportunities Fund VI. Meanwhile, Ardian is packaging stakes from its secondaries portfolio into a collateralized fund obligation valued at approximately $1 billion, signaling innovation in fund financing. On the investor side, the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) has issued an RFP for a private equity buyout mandate, indicating a potential commitment of up to $20 billion. The latest Global Investor 150 ranking also sheds light on the asset class's largest allocators, with the top 10 investors collectively managing $1.1 trillion in private equity assets according to PE International.

Sector-Specific Deals and Investments

Several firms have made targeted acquisitions and investments across diverse industries. Monomoy Capital acquired the quick lube and car service franchise Jiffy Lube for $1.3 billion from a Shell USA subsidiary. In the automotive sector, WILsquare-backed Automotive Color & Ohio Paint Supply, expanding its regional distribution network. Balance Point invested in Aqua Verse, a platform designed to consolidate pool service brands, while Investcorp-backed Sunrise Produce acquired Family Tree Produce, strengthening its wholesale distribution capabilities in Southern California.

Technology and Software Investments

The technology sector continues to draw significant private equity interest, with a focus on AI infrastructure and enterprise software. Brookfield has expanded its financing with Bloom Energy for AI power infrastructure to $25 billion, a fivefold increase since October 2025. In the software domain, Volpi Capital took in Kgs, a provider of archiving software for SAP environments. Separately, FPE backed utility software firm BMA, which offers decision intelligence for utility companies.

Venture Capital Activity and Founder Focus

Venture capital firms are actively launching new funds and backing emerging talent, with a particular emphasis on repeat founders and AI-related ventures. Ashton Kutcher is launching a new venture capital firm with Morgan Beller, shifting focus from concentrated AI lab bets to infrastructure. Tapestry VC closed an $80 million third fund, specifically targeting repeat European founders, anticipating a wave of AI-driven exits. The venture landscape also saw Rick Hao, a former Speedinvest partner, close a $50 million solo GP fund for deeptech startups.

Exits and Portfolio Management

Firms are also actively managing their portfolios through sales and secondary transactions. Peak Rock sold its geospatial services company SAM to New Mountain. Inflexion sold manufacturer Avantus Aerospace to Arcline, which will integrate it into its Novaria Group. First Reserve-backed Trillium Flow select valve businesses to Flowserve. In a notable transaction, IVEST and Cloverlay are set to sell Care Bears to Authentic Brands Group, having quadrupled the business in three years.

Industry Trends and Emerging Opportunities

The private equity industry is exploring new avenues for growth, including in niche markets and through innovative financing structures. The medical education sector presents an opportunity for private equity, driven by the global need for healthcare professionals according to PE International. Secondaries investors are increasingly seeking fund financing for continuations vehicles to optimize returns. Meanwhile, the ongoing tech layoffs, with over 127,000 workers at U.S. tech companies laid off in 2025 and continuing into 2026 per Crunchbase News, may create future investment opportunities.

Corporate Development and Personnel Moves

Strategic corporate developments and key personnel changes are also shaping the private equity landscape. William Blair acquired investment bank Inner Circle Sports, expanding its advisory services for the sports and entertainment industries. In a significant clean energy acquisition, KKR is set to acquire the US and Canada operations of EDF power solutions for $4.2 billion. On the firm-internal front, Blue Wolf tapped Vanessa as its new CFO, while Eve Mongiardo will continue as a partner and chief compliance officer. Inflexion announced several promotions, elevating Sachin Mitra, James Stevens, and Freddy West to partner.