Private Equity 24 Hours

Last updated: July 20, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Private Equity Deals and Transactions

Private equity firms have been active in various sectors, with several notable transactions and strategic moves reported. Hellman & Friedman is refinancing approximately $3 billion in debt for its portfolio company Baker Tilly, moving the financing from private credit to the syndicated market, with Deutsche Bank arranging the deal. In the industrials and manufacturing space, Kinderhook has invested in American Aero, an aerospace components maker, marking its 33rd platform investment in the sector. BGF is selling Walker Precision Engineering, a provider of mission-critical components for the aerospace and defense markets, to Karman Space & Defense. Paine Schwartz ingredients and beverage manufacturer Lyons Magnus to Truelink. Pelican Energy has acquired industrial metal fabricator Riggins Company, which offers services including custom metal fabrication and turnkey project management. In a move within the architecture and design sector, Brightstar has acquired tech design and consulting firm Bright Tree Studios, adding it to its existing platform. Coalesce-backed Examinetics has acquired occupational health solutions provider Progressive Safety and Jurgiel. Greenbelt has invested in Bowe & Gant Electrical Services, with the company's co-founders retaining a significant equity stake and continuing to lead the business. Furthermore, Bain Capital European supply chain platform Supply On, which connects manufacturers and suppliers across automotive, aerospace, and other sectors. Wind Point-backed Assisi Pet Care has acquired Forthglade, a pet food and treats business, from IK Partners.

Venture Capital Funding and Startup Activity

The venture capital landscape saw significant funding rounds, particularly in the artificial intelligence and fintech sectors. Natural, a startup aiming to reinvent financial architecture for autonomous AI transactions. Infinity, an AI infrastructure company, announced a $15 million raise at a $100 million valuation from investors including Touring Capital and researchers from OpenAI and Anthropic. Cusp AI has secured a $450 million round to accelerate AI materials discovery. In Latin America, Mexico continues to lead venture capital investment, with its startups raising $944 million in the second quarter, a 131% increase year-over-year. Strictly VC is planning an event in New York City on September 10th to celebrate the city's startup community.

Sector Focus and Market Strategies

Private equity firms are exploring various strategies across different industries, including recapitalizations in real estate and a focus on take-private deals in Asia. Private real estate investors are increasingly utilizing recapitalizations to unlock liquidity and extend hold periods amid refinancing pressures and elusive exits. In Asia, KPS Asia is targeting take-private deals and carve-outs in Japan, having recently opened its first outpost in Tokyo. Investors are showing less enthusiasm for technology investments following recent market shifts, with EQT reportedly behind its goal to deliver €20 billion of exits; CVC is bolstering its Asia-Pacific business. Peak Rock Capital is reportedly testing the market for its portfolio company Berner Food & Beverage, which has seen significant revenue and EBITDA growth since its acquisition in 2015. IVEST and Cloverlay successfully grew the Care Bears franchise through licensing before its exit to Authentic Brands. Blackstone is nearing a $400 million exit deal for RGIS, an inventory services company, with an Israeli private equity firm in talks to acquire control of its international operations Blackstone nears $400m exit deal. Apollo is reportedly in advanced talks for a $3 billion financing package for the Yankees Apollo in advanced talks. CVC DIF has agreed to acquire a majority stake in medical waste business Eco Eridania. EQT sees compelling opportunities in the Technology, Information, Communications, and Construction (TICC) sector, driven by AI reshaping delivery, with the global TICC industry expected to grow at mid-to-high single digits.

Firm Movements and Regulatory Landscape

Leadership changes and regulatory considerations are also shaping the private equity environment. Littlejohn has promoted Brian Michaud to managing partner, who will share responsibility for the firm's management. Private funds are facing ongoing regulatory pressure, with the SEC's priorities potentially shifting but enforcement actions indicating continued scrutiny of managers. In the UK, Claire Reynolds has been appointed business secretary as the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) is reportedly being scrapped. San Joaquin County Employees' Retirement Association is seeking a general investment consultant.