Dutch Private Equity Report 2026
Download our (Dutch) Private Equity Report 2026 featuring the key findings for the Netherlands.
Private Equity Report 2026 – Dutch Insights
10 April 2026
Forvis Mazars presents its Dutch Private Equity Report 2026: Growing in uncertain times through active ownership and prudent financing. Discover our report and learn how Dutch private equity firms are navigating the challenging market conditions of 2026, and which strategies are at the forefront.
Key insights from the Dutch study
84% of Dutch private equity firms consider themselves active investors. |
64% of Dutch private equity firms view technology, media & telecom (TMT) as their preferred sector. |
42% is the average entry leverage of Dutch private equity firms. |
The Netherlands compared to the global market
- 66of Dutch private equity firms cite geopolitical uncertainty as the most significant external challenge, compared with 57% globally.
- 56of Dutch private equity firms express confidence in market conditions for portfolio growth, versus 72% globally.
- 36of Dutch exits achieve an IRR of 20% or higher, compared with 50% globally.
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“In a market that is becoming increasingly selective, it is more important than ever for private equity firms in the Netherlands to focus on operational value creation and sector specialisation. There is still ample capital available. The ability to deploy it effectively, with a hands-on approach, active ownership, and clearly defined value levers, ultimately determines the difference between keeping pace and leading the way.”
- Aron de Jong, Partner | Head of Private Equity, Forvis Mazars in Nederland |
Caution brings stability, but limits acceleration
Our research indicates that the Dutch private equity sector is adopting a cautious approach in 2026. While international private equity firms are selectively taking on risk to maximise growth opportunities, Dutch firms remain focused primarily on control and predictability. This creates stability, but limits the scope for acceleration and value creation.
The performance of Dutch portfolios largely develops in line with expectations. Although many Dutch private equity firms are optimistic about the fundraising climate, confidence in portfolio growth remains moderate. International strategies are acknowledged as important, but are applied less intensively than at a global level. Firms favour familiar, nearby markets, with Germany being the primary choice.
The findings depict a sector that values stability over rapid expansion, with a focus on professionalisation, strategy and long term value creation. As a result, Dutch private equity prioritises responsible investment, though it may miss opportunities that international peers are seizing.
The performance of Dutch portfolios largely develops in line with expectations. Although many Dutch private equity firms are optimistic about the fundraising climate, confidence in portfolio growth remains moderate. International strategies are acknowledged as important, but are applied less intensively than at a global level. Firms favour familiar, nearby markets, with Germany being the primary choice.
The findings depict a sector that values stability over rapid expansion, with a focus on professionalisation, strategy and long term value creation. As a result, Dutch private equity prioritises responsible investment, though it may miss opportunities that international peers are seizing.
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respondents
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country: The Netherlands
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“Private equity plays a crucial role in the Netherlands in supporting businesses in achieving growth and long-term resilience. By combining capital with strategic guidance, companies can successfully invest in innovation, digitalisation and international expansion. This report shows that, in uncertain times, Dutch investors choose a controlled approach: careful selection, responsible financing, and strengthening companies in a disciplined and phased manor. This discipline contributes to the sustainable development of portfolio companies and of our sector.” - Tjarda Molenaar, managing director of the Nederlandse Vereniging van Participatiemaatschappijen (NVP) |
In addition to our Dutch Private Equity Report 2026, we have also published a global edition.
This report provides international insights into trends, challenges and strategic choices within the global private equity sector.
C-suite barometer - outlook 2026
One hundred C‑suite executives participated in the Dutch C‑suite survey. The findings show that over the next three to five years they are primarily focused on international growth. Technological transformation is also high on the agenda, as is adapting strategy in response to competition and tariffs. In addition, they see redefining the sales and business model as a key area of focus.
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