Private Equity 24 Hours

Last updated: July 31, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

Mega-Funds and Record Exits Signal Robust Dealmaking

KKR posted largest-ever, generating $848 million in realized performance income and exit multiples as high as 20x, a move that fuels pushback against industry anxiety. Blue Owl is nearing its fundraising target of $10.6 billion for its latest GP stakes fund, with CFO Alan Kirshenbaum indicating the vehicle will close this year after extensions. CVC is preparing for a significant fundraising effort, potentially launching its sixth secondaries fund with a target close in the third quarter, having already raised $9.3 billion for the vehicle. Brookfield achieved a $2 billion first close for its Middle East buyout fund, anchored by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.

AI and Cleantech Drive New Capital Inflows

Battery storage startup Antora, one of the largest cleantech raises this year, to accelerate deployment of large-scale projects amid surging energy demand from AI data centers. The European Union has opened applications for a €10 billion AI gigafactory scheme, signaling a significant push into AI infrastructure. Venture capital firm Blossom Capital is actively seeking investments in the defense sector, indicating a strategic shift to capitalize on emerging opportunities. Inforcer raised $50 led by Insight Partners to help smaller businesses navigate AI and security risks.

Strategic Acquisitions and Divestitures Shape Portfolios

Platinum Equity is acquiring a 50% stake in Nestlé's waters arm for $3.4 billion, forming a new entity named Peranel with an enterprise value of €4.9 billion ($5.6 . KKR and Energy Capital Partners are set to acquire DCC in a £5.75 billion ($7.78 cash takeover, despite shareholder objections. Blackstone acquiring ultrasonic, while Macquarie is reportedly exploring a sale of its waste-to-energy company, Win Waste. Providence Equity Partners will assume full ownership of THE·TEAM, formerly known as Wasserman, in a buyout deal. Bain Capital has agreed to acquire UK vitamins leader Vitabiotics for approximately £900 million ($1.2 to drive international growth. Blackstone and Colony IM are jointly acquiring Accor's 30.7% stake in hotel owner Essendi for up to €975 million ($1.12 .

Secondary Markets and Specialist Funds Gain Traction

CVC aims to close its sixth secondaries fund in the third quarter, and is also planning to launch its first infrastructure secondaries vehicle. Savano closed oversubscribed, which has already made 12 investments. Hamilton Lane is leading a single-asset continuation vehicle for a wealth management asset. Evercore expanding APAC, more than doubling its headcount to capitalize on growth in secondaries markets in the region.

Sector-Specific Investments Highlight Growth Areas

Health testing platform Function for its subscription-based blood testing service. TSG Consumer, previously backed by Prelude Growth Partners. Dominus investing traffic, with Pelco's management team set to continue leading the business. MRC backing Nexus to support its geographic expansion, acquisitions, and team growth. Hg and EQT, while Open Gate is carving out Knorr-Bremse's HVAC unit.

University Spinouts and VC Strategies Evolve

European universities in the first half of 2026, indicating strong venture capital activity in academic innovation. VCs taking operator within their portfolio companies. Former NEA Partner Vanessa Larco evaluates startups based on founder potential and AI leverage, emphasizing teams that utilize artificial intelligence.