Private Equity 3 Days

Last updated: July 2, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Private Equity Dealmaking & Fundraises

Private equity continues to be an active participant across diverse sectors, with significant investment rounds and strategic acquisitions reported. Truelink Capital made its first fund II platform investment in Horwitz, a provider of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing services for commercial and industrial facilities. Platinum Equity is set to invest in retailer Grand Appliance, which operates 31 locations and five distribution centers across the Midwest. In the technology sector, GTCR-backed Experity acquired Exdion Healthcare, an on-demand healthcare technology platform. Peak Rock scooped up health tech firm Asembia, which also hosts a specialty pharmacy conference.

The direct lending space saw a major capital raise, with Hayfin pulling in over €15 billion ($17.1 for its latest flagship direct lending fund, signaling a concentration of capital with larger players. Elsewhere, Hamilton Lane closed its sixth direct equity fund at $3.8 billion, its largest to date. On the secondaries market, Ardian is packaging stakes into a $1 billion debt vehicle, while BCI is exploring a new capital solutions strategy. Investor intentions are also shaping the market, with MWRA issuing an RFP for a private equity buyout mandate, planning to commit up to $20 billion.

Sector-Specific Investments & Acquisitions

The energy and AI sectors continue to attract substantial investment, though the broader tech landscape faces adjustments. Joulent, a Houston-based energy startup, secured a significant funding round, while AI remains a leading area for venture capital. In logistics, JFLCO-backed Wrist Group acquired maritime logistics provider MSA, indicating continued consolidation in specialized industrial services. The retail sector is also seeing PE activity, with Platinum Equity investing in Grand Appliance.

Healthcare and life sciences remain a strong focus for private equity. Truelink Capital invested in Horwitz, a provider of MEP services, and Parthenon backed patient support solutions provider Momentum Life Sciences. In health tech, Peak Rock acquired Asembia. The medical education sector presents opportunities, driven by a global need for healthcare professionals, as noted by PE International.

Venture Capital Activity & Startup Funding

Venture capital is seeing a mix of established players and new entrants, with a notable focus on AI and deep tech. Thiel Capital’s Jack Selby is raising a $300 million second fund through Copper Sky Capital, and has taken stakes in startups like Etched. Melinda Gates’ Pivotal Ventures is backing Magnify Ventures’ $46.6 million Fund II. On the deep tech front, ex-Speedinvest partner Rick Hao closed a $50 million solo GP fund.

The AI boom continues to drive funding, with GV’s Dave Munichiello discussing the shift in AI software and managing computing costs. Meta OpenAI alumni are seeking $400 million for a new AI lab. Meanwhile, the broader venture capital ecosystem is grappling with data challenges, with calls for better data infrastructure to combat the misuse of AI in the sector We Need To Save. Tapestry VC launched an $80 million fund aimed at backing repeat European founders, anticipating a wave of AI-driven exits.

Exits & Divestitures

Private equity firms are actively realizing investments, with several notable exits and divestitures. Riverside Company sold organic candy brand Yum Earth to ACON Investments. Wynnchurch Capital is exiting its aerospace components business, PFG, to HIG Capital. In the food sector, Altamont Capital sold comfort food chain Cotton Patch Cafe to Local Favorite Restaurants. IVEST and Cloverlay are selling the Care Bears franchise to Authentic Brands Group after quadrupling its revenue.

In a significant renewable energy transaction, KKR agreed to acquire EDF's North American renewables arm for $4.2 billion, marking a substantial clean energy bet. CVC DIF is selling its Polish wind portfolio to Actis. Xenon Private Equity is exiting Italian tomato processor Solana to Investindustrial-backed La Doria.

Strategic Initiatives & Market Trends

The private equity industry is adapting to evolving market conditions and regulatory landscapes. The use of continuation vehicles (CVs) is becoming more common, with secondaries investors increasingly comfortable with fund financing for CVs to optimize returns. The ILPA has updated its guidance for CVs to reflect market changes. The trend of capital concentration with scale players is evident, as shown by Hayfin’s large direct lending fund close.

Artificial intelligence is not only a sector for investment but also a tool transforming PE operations. The vulnerability of AI-focused software companies, dubbed the ‘Saa Spocalypse,’ is prompting a reevaluation of strategies within the sector Deep Dive: How AI. Industry bodies are also engaging with regulators, with discussions on market practice for continuation vehicles to preempt potential regulatory intervention art self-governance. Meanwhile, discussions around private capital's role in the UK's defense industry highlight its potential as a catalyst for growth and commercial discipline Private capital will.