Private Equity Podcast: Karma School of Business Private Equity 2025 Insights and the 2026 Deal Cycle Outlook
Jan 28, 2026
Data-driven shifts from defense to offense in 2025 and what that means for deal momentum. A striking 41% diligence surge and why commercial diligence forecasts deal flow. The rapid comeback of human capital and strategic hiring trends. Practical predictions on AI moving into tactical use, software sprawl, and how dry powder and LP pressure will accelerate deals in 2026.
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Tech And AI Project Volumes Skyrocketed
- Technology work exploded, led by business intelligence, analytics, and AI, with tech projects up 86% YoY.
- That tech surge amplifies value creation as firms both fix portfolios and acquire new companies.
Invest In Sales And Pricing Ahead Of Growth
- Shift from defense to offense: invest ahead of demand in sales, pricing, and Salesforce effectiveness.
- Expand recruiting and pricing strategies to capture lift as the economy heats up.
AI Is A Tactic, Not A Strategy
- AI is a tactic, not a strategy, similar to the internet's role in the 1990s.
- Its value comes from synthesizing information and automating repeatable processes as part of broader strategies.
