Private Equity 3 Hours

Last updated: May 15, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

Private Equity Litigation

A verdict in the former placement‑agent case marked a rare win for diversity advocates, as a jury dismissed the racial‑bias claim that Mercury Capital had become a “safe haven for white men only” under ex‑CEO Michael Ricciardi. The ruling, delivered after a contentious 12‑day trial, signals that courts may scrutinise internal culture claims more closely, potentially reshaping due‑diligence standards for PE firms.

Cross‑Border Dealmaking

In Europe, a strategic consolidation unfolded when Charlesbank‑backed Tecomet and Nordic‑backed Orchid Orthopedic Solutions merged under the Tecomet brand. The combined entity will leverage Tecomet’s global supply chain to expand its orthopedic device portfolio, a move that could lift revenues by an estimated 15‑20% in the next fiscal year. Meanwhile, Kinderhook acquired Enhabit Home Health & Hospice in a take‑private deal valued at $350 M, appointing Barb Jacobsmeyer as CEO. The transaction reflects a broader trend of PE backing in the ageing‑care sector, as investors chase steady cash flows amid demographic shifts.

Capital Flow & Fund Strategy

Dutch drone maker Destinus is reportedly in €200 M funding talks, underscoring the sector’s growing appeal to PE investors looking for high‑growth tech platforms. In Asia, Schroders is exiting its wholly‑owned China fund unit, transferring products to Neuberger Berman in a strategic realignment that could free up €1.5bn of assets under management for redeployment. These moves illustrate a sharpening focus on geographic diversification and risk‑adjusted returns within the private‑equity ecosystem.