Private Equity 8 Hours

Last updated: August 24, 2026, 8:35 AM ET

Franklin Templeton Closes $1.5bn CFO Fund

Franklin Templeton has closed its debut collateralized fund obligation (CFO), raising $1.5bn from global investors. The new vehicle combines two of its flagship private markets strategies, targeting secondaries and Benefit Street credit opportunities. The fund represents a significant expansion of its infrastructure capabilities in the private markets space.

Shell Chemicals Sale Draws Major PE Contenders

Shell Chemicals sale has attracted intense interest from private equity giants. Apollo emerged as a contender alongside Exxon Mobil and Lyondell Basell in the $8bn US chemicals business auction, according to the FT. The auction reflects strong appetite for industrial assets in the current market environment.

Partners Group Exits Gong cha Investment

Partners Group is exiting its private credit investment in Gong cha, the Taiwanese bubble-tea chain, following Bain Capital's agreement to acquire the brand from TA Associates. The transaction triggers full repayment of Partners Group's investment, demonstrating the returns potential in the consumer-focused private equity sector.

Radial Expands Healthcare Platform via Acquisition

Radial has expanded its reach by acquiring Mindful Health Solutions, which operates 21 clinics specializing in TMS, Spravato and IV ketamine therapy across the western US. The deal strengthens Radial's position in the mental health technology space while adding significant clinical infrastructure to its platform.

AI Startups Drive Acquisition Wave

Startups continue acquiring other startups at a robust pace, with well-funded companies opting to purchase rather than build key technologies. This trend accelerates as firms compete in the AI race, recognizing that acquisition often proves faster than internal development for critical capabilities.

Telecom Take-Privates Gain Momentum

Telecoms are increasingly in demand as UK take-private activity surges. Waterland Private Equity has joined Gamma Communications' takeover discussions, highlighting the sector's appeal amid broader privatization momentum. Gamma confirmed the ongoing negotiations on Friday, underscoring investor confidence in telecom assets.

Next Generation Reshapes Secondaries Market

Next Generation is fundamentally altering secondaries market dynamics, with one limited partner swapping snow for sand in pursuit of new opportunities. Copenhagen prepares for its first listed private equity firm launch, signaling evolving investment approaches among emerging institutional investors.

PE Cost Scrutiny Intensifies Across Industry

PE Cost Scrutiny intensifies across the industry as private equity firms face growing cost pressure. PEI's Data Dive examines how the industry is responding to mounting scrutiny over fees and expenses, with firms implementing new cost controls and operational improvements to address stakeholder concerns.

AI Efficiency Startups Capture VC Attention

VCs have identified 19 startups making AI more efficient, reflecting strong investor interest in computational optimization technologies. These companies represent emerging opportunities in the race to develop more efficient artificial intelligence systems and reduce operational costs.

Copenhagen Emerges as Startup Hub

Copenhagen has emerged as a startup hub with 15 identified hotspots, highlighting the city's growing appeal for entrepreneurial ventures. The ecosystem benefits from strong institutional support, talent availability, and strategic positioning in the Nordic innovation landscape.

Startup Investment Philosophy Evolves

Startup Jockey vs Horse explores the ongoing debate between betting on the startup jockey versus the horse, with a third option gaining traction among sophisticated investors. This approach recognizes that both founder quality and business model merit separate evaluation and investment consideration.

AI Powers New IP Strategy Approaches

AI is powering new IP strategy approaches as founders increasingly leverage artificial intelligence to take control of their intellectual property strategies. This trend enables more sophisticated patent filing, monitoring and enforcement capabilities while reducing reliance on traditional legal counsel for routine IP management tasks.