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Private Equity 8 Hours

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10 articles summarized · Last updated: LATEST

Last updated: May 1, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

Dealmaking & Portfolio Performance

Private equity managers continue to emphasize technology integration, with TPG asserting that the shift from defensive to offensive AI positioning is a "positive weapon" for the sector, evidenced by portfolio software holdings recording 20% year-on-year growth despite accelerating disruption. Activity remains steady across specialized sectors, as ArchiMed agreed to acquire Esperion Therapeutics in a take-private transaction valued at $1.1 billion, with closing anticipated in the third quarter of 2026. In the events space, Searchlight is moving to acquire a stake in Closer Still Media, which is currently backed by Providence Equity Partners, signaling sustained interest in B2B platforms. Meanwhile, AnaCap concluded the sale of the French private bank Milleis Group—encompassing Milleis Banque and subsidiaries like Cholet Dupont Asset Management—to LCL and Crédit Agricole Assurances.

New Entrants & Personnel Moves

The competitive fundraising environment saw the official launch of a new firm, Mako being established by co-founders including Oscar Munoz, the former chairman and CEO of United Airlines, signaling fresh capital deployment strategies. In strategic staffing, Riverwood appointed Mac Hofeditz as managing director, bringing in former Vector Capital Management expertise to bolster its investment team. Sector-specific deal flow suggests consolidation targets, with multiple firms including Goldman Sachs and Gryphon Investors reportedly eyeing platform investments across the eye care industry, anticipating at least six potential transactions.

Minority Stakes & Niche Investments

Firms are actively deploying capital into minority stakes and niche assets, demonstrated by Neuberger backing Flow Control Group, where existing majority owner KKR will retain control while Neuberger secures a significant minority interest. Beyond traditional corporate targets, the sports investment vertical is active, as the Avenue Sports Fund invested in the professional soccer team The North Carolina Courage, chaired by Steve Malik. This investment trend contrasts with broader venture capital activity, where seed funding concentration in the San Francisco Bay Area expanded its share of both deal volume and dollar value in 2025, even as startup locations remained geographically diverse.