Here’s how six key areas of the private equity market have developed so far this year, and what might happen next.

Private Equity International’s mid-year take on the market’s hottest topics explores trends shaping global private equity. Among the highlights: the PEI 300 ranking of the world’s largest private equity firms, published on 1 June 2026, and the latest investor intentions report from 14 July 2025.

The article covers key developments across fundraising, deal-making, LP-GP relationships, and the democratisation of private equity. Expert intelligence on the funds, deals and trends is reserved for subscribers, with registration required to unlock full content.

As the market evolves, factors such as carried interest structures, placement agent activity, and institutional investor preferences continue to drive strategic decisions. The outlook suggests ongoing transformation in how firms raise capital and manage portfolios.