Private Equity 3 Hours

Last updated: April 1, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Venture Capital Dynamics

First-quarter startup funding shattered all records, driven by four massive capital injections into generative AI leaders like OpenAI and Anthropic, which collectively accounted for a substantial portion of the total haul and signal an exceptionally buoyant early-stage environment. Concurrently, institutional advisors expressed unease regarding the proliferation of inactive investments, as family offices outlined concerns about the rising number of "zombie funds." Groups such as Stonehage Fleming are now advocating for the swift liquidation of these aging vehicles to preempt valuation disputes that plague end-of-life fund management.