Private Equity 8 Hours

Last updated: June 30, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

Dealmaking Activity & Sector Focus

Private equity firms have been actively pursuing infrastructure and services businesses, with Warburg Pincus agreeing to acquire UK utility and infrastructure service provider Network Plus from OMERS. In a similar vein, CVC Credit is backing the merger of German and Spanish infrastructure services groups KSG and Sasti to form a pan-European platform. Separately, Triton is in exclusive talks to acquire Bureau Veritas’ global fuel testing and inspection business for an estimated €470 million. This sector’s appeal to PE stems from its predictable, regulatory-underpinned revenues as noted by industry observers.

In the waste management sector, Skoyen is set to acquire Bartec Municipal Technologies, whose systems are used by over 100 UK local authorities for waste collection and street cleaning. RF Investment Partners has also exited its investment in Ally Waste Services, marking the conclusion of a partnership that began in 2022.

Platform Acquisitions & Add-ons

Several platform companies have been expanding through bolt-on acquisitions. O2-backed Azureon, a pool care platform, has acquired residential pool services firm Pooltek Services. Elsewhere, High Street-backed Pinnacle Contracting Services has scooped up CJones Plumbing, adding to its residential concrete and masonry services in the Southeast. Meanwhile, Main-backed Zig is to acquire Dutch Saa S provider Provadie, which serves real estate valuation professionals.

Technology & AI Ventures

The artificial intelligence space continues to attract significant venture capital and entrepreneurial interest. Alumni from Meta and OpenAI are seeking $400 million to launch a new AI lab, signaling a trend of experienced technologists venturing out independently. This follows other notable departures, with Revolut alumni spreading across new ventures. Separately, Parabellum Investments has snapped up data management platform Crux Informatics, which boasts over 200 data providers including Morningstar and MSCI. The potential for AI to tap into Asian markets is also being explored, with Hong Kong positioned as a potential gateway for European AI investment.

However, concerns are being raised about the current application of AI in venture capital. Henrik Landgren of Gilion argues that VC firms are misusing AI and need to focus on building better data infrastructure and direct connections to financial sources. This commentary comes amidst ongoing discussions about the soaring costs and complexity of AI computing, which are prompting technology companies to re-evaluate their strategies as highlighted by recent developments.

Exits & Fund Management

Altamont Capital has sold comfort food chain Cotton Patch Cafe to Local Favorite Restaurants, an existing platform for local brands. In fund management, the ILPA has updated its guidance for limited partner advisory committees, aiming to address the evolving market. This comes as some firms consider new fund structures, such as double-down funds, which could become popular according to industry commentary.

Growth Investments

In the insurance sector, FTV is making a growth investment in Carbon Underwriting, a specialist with its own Lloyd’s syndicate. This follows a period of interest in the testing, inspection, and certification sector, which offers predictable revenues.