Private Equity 8 Hours

Last updated: June 26, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

Fundraising & Fund Activity

Private equity firms are actively raising substantial capital, with MGX targeting close to $50bn for one of the largest artificial intelligence-focused funds ever. Berlin-based Peec AI is also seeking to raise $200m for a new fund, signaling continued investor appetite for AI-related ventures. In a move to streamline operations and potentially prepare for future exits, Element Fleet Management secured a funding program anchored by CPP Investments and Blackstone Credit & Insurance. Meanwhile, the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (STRS) is planning its private equity pacing, setting a target of up to $1.5bn in new commitments for fiscal year 2027.

Dealmaking & Portfolio Moves

Deal activity remains brisk across various sectors. L Catterton is exploring a sale of Thorne, the US supplements maker, with potential valuations reaching up to $4bn and Unilever reportedly among the interested parties. In the UK, Warburg Pincus is set to acquire utility and infrastructure services provider Network Plus. On the technology front, CVC Capital Partners' Fund IX is backing Chess.com, the world's largest online chess platform. Partners Group-backed SureWerx acquired Italy's Genesi, a specialist in work-at-height safety products. In the financial services communications space, ParkSouth Ventures-backed Infinite acquired Greentarget UK.

Sector-Specific Investments

The radiology sector continues to attract significant private equity attention, with multiple firms like Archimed, HCAP, Hg, and Kain Capital pursuing transactions in this area. Archimed, Grovecourt, and Kain Capital are all actively involved in deals within the radiology space. Latticework Capital and Edgehill are backing the acquisition of CDMO brands through their respective portfolios. Norwest has also made an investment in high-purity water systems firm East Range Group, aiming to support its expansion in capabilities and growth opportunities.

Strategic Partnerships & Notable Exits

In a move to bolster its advisory capacity, General Atlantic has appointed tennis champion Novak Djokovic as a global strategic advisor. This collaboration will see Djokovic working closely with the firm's leadership and portfolio companies. Looking towards potential exits, JFLCO-backed Doncasters has listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "DPC." In a competitive bidding scenario, Bain Capital and LY Corporation are preparing a rival bid for Japan's Kakaku.com, challenging EQT's existing offer for the price-comparison group. Separately, a deal involving Kline Hill leading on Plaza Ventures' sale of a stake in Stack Adapt provides the digital advertising company with more runway amid AI disruptions, with Plaza's prior investment in Stack Adapt considered one of Canada's highest-returning venture deals.

Venture Capital & Emerging Trends

Discussions around funding for underrepresented founders continue, with six investors offering advice on how to finance more Black founders. While not strictly private equity, this conversation highlights broader trends in capital allocation and diversity within the investment ecosystem. The digital advertising sector, as evidenced by the Stack Adapt deal, is navigating significant shifts due to AI advancements.

Other Notable Activities

Revolut has adjusted its remote work policy for graduates, indicating a potential shift in tech company operational strategies.