Private Equity 8 Hours

Last updated: July 20, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

Private Equity Activity in Industrials and Aerospace

Kinderhook Capital in American Aero, an aerospace components maker, marking its 33rd platform investment in the industrials and manufacturing sector. In a related deal, BGF is selling Walker Precision Engineering, a provider of mission-critical components for advanced technology aerospace and defense markets, to Karman Space & Defense. Pelican Energy industrial metal fabricator Riggins Company, which offers custom metal fabrication, specialty welding, and turnkey project management. Meanwhile, Bain Capital Supply On, a European supply chain platform connecting over 200 manufacturers and 140,000 suppliers across automotive and aerospace sectors. Greenbelt made in Bowe & Gant Electrical Services, with the co-founders retaining a significant equity stake.

Deal Flow in Food & Beverage and Pet Care

Peak Rock the sale of its 2015 portfolio company, Berner Food & Beverage. Since Peak Rock's acquisition, Berner has seen its revenue increase threefold and EBITDA sixfold. Separately, Paine Schwartz Lyons Magnus, an ingredients and beverage manufacturer supplying major coffeehouse and quick-service restaurant chains, to Truelink. In the pet care sector Forthglade, a UK-based pet food business founded in 1971, from IK Partners.

Tech and AI Investments Gain Momentum

Infinity, AI $15 million at a $100 million valuation from investors including Touring Capital and researchers from OpenAI and Anthropic. In a significant development for materials discovery, CuspAI secured a $450 million round. On the M&A front, Brightstar acquired tech design and consulting firm Bright Tree Studios, adding it to its architecture and design platform.

Secondary Market and Investor Strategies

investors increasingly turning to recapitalizations to unlock liquidity and extend hold periods amidst mounting refinancing pressures and elusive exits. Limited partners are reportedly less optimistic about technology investments following a period of market correction, with EQT noted to be behind its €20 billion exit target. CVC, however, is bolstering its Asia-Pacific business.

Geographic Investment Trends and Firm Developments

Mexico's startups in the second quarter, raising $944 million, a 131% increase year-over-year. KPS Capital Partners is eyeing Japanese take-private and carve-out opportunities with its new Asia outpost. In firm news, Littlejohn promoted Brian Michaud to managing partner, where he will share management responsibilities with existing managing partners and the chief operating officer. San Joaquin County Employees' Retirement Association is seeking a general investment consultant.

Venture Capital and Startup Ecosystem Events

IVEST Cloverlay the entertainment franchise Care Bears through licensing before exiting the business to Authentic Brands. A source indicated that the Care Bears venture "exceeded all of our milestones – operational, financial, and also from a market perspective." Strictly VC is returning to New York City on September 10 to celebrate the city's startup community.