Global Private Equity Outlook 2026
Download the Forvis Mazars global private equity report 2026.
Global private equity outlook 2026: Exploring new investment direction
The Forvis Mazars global private equity outlook 2026 presents exclusive perspectives from more than 800 private equity specialists from all over the world and across sectors and investment approaches. Get insights from our global report for an updated view on how investor priorities are shifting in response to evolving market conditions.
Exploring new investment direction
Our 2026 private equity analysis highlights how private equity leaders worldwide are adjusting to a market characterised by stabilisation, selective recovery and tighter execution. With financing conditions still constrained, firms are moving their attention from deal volume towards value creation, organic expansion, operational influence and disciplined capital allocation. Technology-led transformation, selective cross-border investment and increased sector focus are influencing where capital is deployed and how returns are generated. This report offers a data-driven overview of the approaches, sectors and operating models expected to shape private equity performance in 2026.
800+
private equity professionals
7
regions
 |
“Private equity players are demonstrating remarkable adaptability in this still uncertain world. After an extended phase of constrained activity, vendors and buyers show signs of a cautious willingness to close deals,
- Matthieu Boyé, Head of Private Equity, Forvis Mazars Group |
Private equity market outlook
- 28of private equity portfolios show a performance ahead of plan
- 58of private equity firms prioritise investments in the technology, media and telecommunications sector
- 67of private equity firms identify market, geopolitical and wider external forces as a top challenge
The private equity landscape in 2026 is defined by tighter execution, shifting financial conditions and a heightened emphasis on technology and international expansion. Firms are modifying their approaches to focus on operational influence and value generation while managing changes in capital structures and timing pressures.
- Execution now makes the difference: private equity firms are moving away from scale and transaction quantity and placing more weight on hands-on value building. High-performing firms are concentrating on control, operational impact and clearly articulated growth levers across their assets.
- Portfolio performance is becoming more stable: returns in 2026 reflect continuity rather than major disruption. Exit results broadly match those of the previous year, with fewer underperforming deals, suggesting confidence is gradually returning as valuation gaps narrow.
- Financing conditions are reshaping deal construction and exit routes: tighter credit markets are affecting capital structures, buy-and-build strategies and exit timetables. As a result, disciplined deployment and inventive financing solutions are playing a larger role.
- Cross-border activity continues to fuel growth: international transactions remain a central engine of expansion, enabling firms to access improved opportunities, diversification advantages and stronger potential returns.
- Technology is integral to value creation: tech-focused investment has moved to the centre of private equity strategies worldwide. With TMT now the most targeted area, digital capability, artificial intelligence and technology-enabled operations are becoming essential components of portfolio performance.
“Private equity is moving into a phase defined less by momentum and more by judgement. With capital still available but harder to deploy, investors are placing greater emphasis on operational performance, sector knowledge and credible value creation plans. Those who can turn strategy into execution, and demonstrate resilience at asset level, are best positioned as conditions continue to evolve.”
-Scott Linch, Partner, Forvis Mazars US |
 |
Contact
Torben Hofmayer Partner - Hamburg
Bernd Keller Partner - Cologne
Private equity
Providing deep experience and advice to help private equity firms and their portfolio companies maximise value through the investment lifecycle.
Private Equity: Wertsteigerung durch ESG-Faktoren
ESG-Faktoren sind heute entscheidende Werttreiber, denn sie beeinflussen den Unternehmenswert positiv – etwa, wenn Marktchancen durch neue nachhaltige Technologien erschlossen werden – oder negativ, z. B. wenn Risiken aufgrund von CO₂-intensiven Geschäftsmodellen oder klimabedingten Schäden an der Infrastruktur und Unterbrechungen der Lieferketten steigen.
Technology, media & telecommunications
Innovative ideas for fast-growing, digitally connected technology, media and telecoms companies
C-Suite-Barometer 2026: Adapting in uncertainty
Our latest study uncovers a business world embracing change, investing in technology and people, and reimagining strategies to stay ahead of disruption and competition. Success now rests on adaptability as much as ambition.
15 Dec 2025
Private equity: turning tariff risk to opportunity
The latest round of U.S. tariff increases – covering everything from industrial machinery to consumer electronics – has rippled quickly through the private equity (PE) sector. Whilst firms are accustomed to navigating macroeconomic turbulence, current trade policy instability has introduced unprecedented challenges for many sectors, and PEs are feeling the squeeze now that hopes for a strong growth...