Disclosed healthcare buyout value fell to $51bn in H1 2026 from around $60bn a year earlier, with pressures from AI disruption and the Iran war contributing to the slowdown. Global healthcare buyout deal activity moderated in the first half of 2026, with disclosed deal value reaching $51 billion across 184 deals, according to Bain & Company's mid-year report on the sector.

That compares with roughly $60 billion worth of deals closed in the first half of 2025. The report noted that a wave of uncertainty contributed to lower deal activity during the period.

Ranging from the AI-driven 'SaaSpocalypse' to the Iran war and pressures in the private credit market, these headwinds shaped a more cautious environment for healthcare buyouts. Bain & Company's mid-year report highlights the broader market conditions impacting deal flow across the sector.