Volatility is putting the brakes on private equity dealmaking just months after the industry expected a surge in activity. Dealmakers who entered 2026 with optimism are now showing fresh hesitation as market uncertainty creeps back into boardroom conversations.

Just weeks ago, there was mounting excitement that private equity would break the "deal dam" in 2026 after a quieter period. That enthusiasm has cooled noticeably, with volatility replacing the haste that characterized late 2025 deal planning.

In personnel news, an APG veteran has departed the Dutch pension giant's private equity operations, marking another high-profile exit from the institutional investing world.

Meanwhile, New York pension giants are holding firm on decarbonization commitments, doubling down on sustainable investment mandates despite the broader market uncertainty.