Private Equity 3 Days

Last updated: July 20, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Dealmaking and Exits

Private equity firms are actively managing their portfolios through a series of acquisitions and divestitures. Kinderhook Industries, an aerospace components maker, marking its 33rd platform investment in the industrials sector. BGF announced plans to sell Walker Precision Engineering, a supplier of mission-critical components to the aerospace and defense markets, to Karman Space & Defense in a strategic divestiture. Paine Schwartz is selling its ingredients and beverage manufacturer, Lyons Magnus, which serves major coffeehouse and quick-service restaurant chains, to Truelink following a period of growth. Pelican Energy has acquired industrial metal fabricator Riggins Company, expanding its capabilities in custom metal fabrication and specialty welding. Bain Capital is set to acquire Supply On, a European supply chain platform connecting over 200 manufacturers and suppliers globally across automotive and aerospace sectors in a significant manufacturing deal. Wind Point-backed Assisi Pet Care has acquired Forthglade, a pet food and treats business, from IK Partners to bolster its pet care offerings. Brightstar has acquired tech design and consulting firm Bright Tree Studios, integrating it into its architecture and design platform as part of an expansion strategy. Coalesce-backed Examinetics has acquired safety services firm Progressive Safety and Jurgiel, enhancing its occupational health solutions. Greenbelt is investing in Bowe & Gant Electrical Services, with the co-founders retaining a significant equity stake. Peak Rock Capital is reportedly exploring a sale of its 2015 portfolio company, Berner Food & Beverage, which has seen significant revenue and EBITDA growth since its acquisition. 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 signaling a substantial return for the firm.

Financing and Market Strategies

The private credit and syndicated loan markets are seeing increased activity as sponsors navigate refinancing pressures. Hellman & Friedman is arranging the refinancing of approximately $3 billion of Baker Tilly debt, moving it from private credit to the syndicated market, a move designed to facilitate the sponsor's buy-and-build strategy amidst evolving market conditions. Private real estate investors are increasingly turning to recapitalizations to unlock liquidity and extend hold periods in a challenging market where exits remain elusive highlighting a shift in strategy. Apollo is reportedly in advanced talks over a $3 billion financing package for the Yankees a significant stadium financing deal.

Venture Capital and Technology Investments

Venture capital activity remains robust, particularly in the artificial intelligence and fintech sectors. Natural has raised $30 million to develop payment solutions for AI agents, aiming to challenge established players like Stripe. Inference startup Infinity has secured $15 million in funding at a $100 million valuation, with investors including Touring Capital and researchers from OpenAI and Anthropic, focusing on AI infrastructure. Cusp AI has landed a $450 million round to accelerate AI-driven materials discovery a substantial investment in advanced AI. Mexico's startups have significantly outperformed Brazil in venture capital funding, raising $944 million in the second quarter, a 131% increase year-over-year, as more global VCs enter the Latin American market. Neil Rimer of Index Ventures predicts that the substantial wealth generated by AI in Silicon Valley will undergo redistribution.

Sector Focus and Firm Movements

Private equity firms are demonstrating a strategic focus on specific sectors and expanding their geographical reach. KPS Asia is targeting take-private and carve-out transactions in Japan, having recently opened its first Asia outpost in Tokyo. EQT sees compelling opportunities in the technology, information, communications, and content (TICC) sector, driven by AI reshaping delivery, with expectations of mid-to-high single-digit growth. CVC DIF has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Eco Eridania, a medical waste business a strategic move in the healthcare sector. LPs are showing less enthusiasm for tech investments following the "Saaspocalypse," and EQT is behind its goal to deliver €20 billion of exits, while CVC is bolstering its Asia-Pacific business indicating a recalibration of LP sentiment. Littlejohn has promoted Brian Michaud to managing partner, who will share responsibility for the firm's management alongside existing managing partners and the COO.

Regulatory and Governance Landscape

The private funds industry continues to face ongoing regulatory scrutiny. McDermott Will & Schulte notes that while SEC priorities may be shifting, recent enforcement actions indicate continued oversight of managers. The UK government has seen changes in its science and technology departments, with Reynolds appointed business secretary as DSIT is scrapped. Investors are also keeping an eye on emerging anti-fraud startups, with 15 companies highlighted for 2026 indicating a focus on security. San Joaquin County Employees' Retirement Association is seeking a general investment consultant through a request for proposal process.