Private equity faces a persistent education gap among individual investors. While private markets grow as portfolio staples, many lack understanding of liquidity risks and manager expertise. Adams Street Partners’ 2026 Advisor Outlook survey reveals 68% of financial advisers believe private assets will dominate by 2026, yet liquidity concerns and inexperienced managers still hinder adoption.

The survey underscores a disconnect: 45% of investors cite opacity in private equity deals as a barrier. Advisers emphasize education to bridge this gap, stressing due diligence on fund structures and exit strategies. Meanwhile, sector specialists are targeting inefficiencies in GP-led secondaries, aiming to streamline transactions and boost transparency.

A new entrant is focusing on deal values exceeding $1.5 trillion in the secondaries space, prioritizing underperforming assets. This shift could reshape market dynamics, offering clearer pathways for retail participation.

Investor education remains critical to aligning expectations with private equity’s realities. Without addressing knowledge gaps, even confident advisers may struggle to onboard hesitant retail clients.