Private Equity 8 Hours

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

Dealmaking & Fund Activity

Private equity firms are actively deploying capital and raising new funds across various sectors. AEA Investors tapped Adam as partner and head of capital formation for the Americas, signaling a focus on fundraising capabilities. In the venture capital space, Chemistry Ventures raising $500M for its second fund, indicating continued investor confidence in early-stage technology. Meanwhile, AI law startup, secured in a Series C round led by Khosla Ventures, achieving a unicorn valuation of $1.2 billion, highlighting the booming interest in AI-powered legal solutions.

Sector-Specific Investments

Acquisitions and investments continue to reshape specialized industries. Agellus Capital-backed CompassMSP acquired, a managed IT and cybersecurity firm, bolstering its service offerings. Renovus-backed TJP acquired FX2, a life sciences commercial operations firm, expanding its reach within the healthcare marketing sector. In a notable move, I Squared agreed from SK Capital, a company specializing in disposal facilities for oil and gas waste, reflecting ongoing strategic plays in the energy services infrastructure.

Diversification and Strategic Stakes

Firms are increasingly exploring diverse asset classes, including sports franchises. Blue Owl has taken a minority stake in the Cleveland Cavaliers professional basketball team, with owner Dan Gilbert retaining majority control. This move, detailed further in Blue Owl's backing of the Cavaliers, marks the sixth NBA franchise for its Home Court Partners fund, pointing to sports as a growing alternative investment area. In a nod to the expanding secondary market, Patria's Patrick Knechtli noted continued dealflow in secondaries, with the firm's focus on smaller deals contributing to a recently closed $677 million fund, which surpassed its target.

Consolidation in Professional Services

The accounting and professional services sector is experiencing a wave of consolidation. Unity Partners acquired Meaden, a firm providing forensic and accounting services, with the firm expecting further add-on acquisitions. This acquisition aligns with Unity's investment strategy in both accounting and insurance services, as noted in Unity Partners backing Meaden. The trend of private equity appetite for accounting firms continues, with Capitol Meridian acquiring Westway, a national security infrastructure firm, aimed at accelerating expansion and broadening access to classified work.

Portfolio Company Exits and Divestitures

Established portfolio companies are also undergoing strategic divestitures. GTCR-backed Corza Medical to EQT, which includes the Tacho Sil product portfolio. This transaction was confirmed by EQT's acquisition of the unit. Elsewhere, HCPI has sold Epicurean Butter to Solina USA, marking an exit for the butter producer that HCPI had partnered with in 2019.

Operational Expansions and Strategic Appointments

Firms are also focusing on operational enhancements and leadership. new naval services platform named Highwater, combining existing portfolio company Eptec Defence with AMP United. Investcorp-backed KSS acquired Strack, a provider of industrial weighing system services, to enhance its mission-critical calibration and repair offerings. In terms of personnel, Bridge Growth appointed Prosper as senior principal to bolster its investment team, and Halifax has tapped Rob Holcomb as an operating executive, bringing extensive analytics experience from Johnson & Johnson.

Niche Market Acquisitions

Smaller, specialized acquisitions continue across various consumer and industrial niches. Thirty-5 Capital-backed Paddletek acquired, expanding its presence in the pickleball market. Allied Industrial-backed Mat Tech, strengthening its waste and hauling services in the Houston area. Sentinel has acquired cake decorations supplier DecoPac from Kohlberg, indicating continued activity in the food supply chain sector. Additionally, HR tech firm Corestream to support its growth.