Private Equity 3 Days

Last updated: June 24, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

AI & TECHNOLOGY INVESTMENTS

The artificial intelligence sector continues to draw significant capital, with Abu Dhabi's MGX raising nearly $50bn for AI infrastructure and technology expansion, marking one of the largest AI-focused funds ever. In a similar vein, Menlo Ventures secured $3bn across two new funds, its largest capital raise in 50 years, specifically targeting AI startups from seed to growth stages, following a successful $750 million bet on Anthropic. Seedcamp also closed on $320 million in new funds to expand its US footprint, in addition to its European focus, while robotics startups globally have raised $18.8 billion year-to-date in 2026, surpassing the total for the previous year. Meanwhile, XCures has secured $46 million in Series B funding to leverage AI for streamlining medical records.

SOFTWARE & IT SERVICES

Private equity firms are actively investing in software and IT services. Thoma Bravo is backing occupational health tech firm Padoa, which provides software for workplace safety and prevention across Europe. In a parallel move, Apheon is acquiring Easi, a Belgian provider of business software and managed IT services. LightBay Capital has invested in IT managed services provider Centre Technologies, which serves over 750 clients in Texas and Oklahoma. Additionally, Teleo Capital has acquired Modersys, a pharmaceutical manufacturing intelligence platform, from Applied Materials, Inc.

HEALTHCARE & LIFE SCIENCES

The healthcare sector is a focal point for private equity, with Chicago Pacific Founders investing in health tech firm Attune to accelerate its platform roadmap and expand omnichannel capabilities. In life sciences, PE-backed Life Science Connect is building a biopharmaceutical outsourcing platform through the acquisition of Pharma Source and CDMO Live. AI's impact on drug discovery was also highlighted, with Mérieux's Jean-François Billet noting that AI can accelerate compound screening.

INFRASTRUCTURE & DATA CENTERS

Significant capital is being allocated to data center infrastructure, particularly in Asia. Blackstone is preparing to invest $30 billion in Japan's AI data center infrastructure over the next three to five years. In a related move, Bain Capital is reportedly seeking capital for its European data center platform, Hscale, with Dubai Holding among potential investors.

FINANCIAL SERVICES & FUND FINANCE

The fund finance industry is evolving with an increased appetite from institutional investors and a proliferation of bespoke structures, according to panellists at the European Fund Finance Association conference FFA conference. Allianz Global Investors has held the first close of its Allianz Asia Pacific Secured Lending Fund III, securing $744 million in commitments. In the secondaries market, Flexstone Partners is set to acquire Glouston Capital Partners, forming a $15 billion private markets platform. INVL Family Office has launched a private equity secondaries fund in partnership with Adams Street Partners, providing clients access to the global secondary market.

DEALS & EXITS

Several portfolio companies are undergoing significant transactions. Providence Equity Partners is in exclusive talks to sell theatre group ATG Entertainment to Mari Group for approximately $6 billion. Advent-backed Cobham Ultra Group is selling its Ultra Mission Solutions defense tech business to Booz Allen for $720 million. Ara Partners plans to sell advanced magnetics company Vacuumschmelze to Energy Fuels for $1.9 billion. In a strategic exit, TPG Capital is selling its Australian drinks and dairy producer Made Group to Danone for $1.4 billion. Meanwhile, CVC Capital Partners is considering a multibillion-euro exit from Cooper Consumer Health, with Cap Vest-owned Stada reportedly a potential buyer.

ADD-ON ACQUISITIONS & PLATFORM BUILDS

Consolidation and platform expansion remain active themes. HiGro Group-backed Daida has acquired Scan-Optics, an intelligent document processing firm. Huron Capital-backed Exigent has acquired mechanical contractor Superior Building Services as part of its Exec Factor initiative. In the automotive sector, One Equity-backed PGW has acquired Windshield Surgeons. Inflexion-backed Ranger Fire and Security has made two add-on acquisitions, Scion Communications and Emerald Fire Technology. Mangrove Equity has launched its new platform, Peak Pavement Group, with the addition of two businesses.

MARKET TRENDS & STRATEGIES

Investor sentiment is being shaped by evolving market dynamics. The Virginia state pension system has cut its private equity target allocation for the first time in over 15 years, citing volatility concerns Virginia pension cuts PE target. Concerns over "zombie funds" persist, with investors anticipating an increase in tail-end vehicles due to liquidity pressures and difficulties in differentiation zombie fund problem persists. In the live events sector, firms like Apollo and Platinum Equity are increasing investments, anticipating market growth to exceed $1.2 trillion by 2032.

FUNDRAISING & CAPITAL RAISES

New fundraising efforts are underway across various strategies. Valor Equity Partners is looking to raise a $2.5 billion Fund VII. Clearlake has closed its eighth flagship fund at $14.8 billion with a focus on AI. Main Capital is opening a London office after raising €5.25 billion for its focus on 'mission-critical companies'. In credit, Brookfield is seeking a $525 million loan to fund a dividend recap for its Australian lender La Trobe Financial.

OTHER NOTABLE INVESTMENTS

Orangewood Partners and other firms are investing in franchises, recognizing opportunities in customer feedback and service for restaurants and retail, particularly as AI transforms these sectors. Juggernaut Capital Partners is teaming up with Gareth Bale to pursue a stake in a football club. In a significant transaction, Platinum Equity has emerged as the sole bidder for Nestlé's water business after CD&R exited the auction. L Catterton has taken a significant minority stake in the clean haircare brand RŌZ. KKR-owned Arctos is backing a $288 million stadium district development in college sports.