Has Private Equity Hit Peak Software?
No, we expect software investing to continue to loom large in private equity as it expands to incorporate the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence.
No, we expect software investing to continue to loom large in private equity as it expands to incorporate the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence.
Global economic growth hovered near trend in 2025. The dollar weakened sharply, while global equities and commodities posted strong gains. Bond returns improved as rates and credit spreads eased.
Our global private equity operating metrics analysis highlights the key levers and value drivers in private equity, and explores a risk and return comparison between private equity and public equity. It includes dedicated Europe and Asia analyses as well as regional comparisons.
While Asia has demonstrated resilience to economic and geopolitical challenges, risks remain, and we expect economic growth and equity beta prospects to moderate as the region faces headwinds from slowing export growth and cooling consumption.
Our 2024 US private equity operating metrics analysis highlights the key levers and value drivers in private equity, and explores a risk and return comparison between private equity and public equity.
In the first half of 2025, US private equity continued its run of low single-digit quarterly returns, while US venture capital extended its recovery from a tough stretch of flat performance.
Private equity delivered stronger results than venture capital in global ex US markets during the first half of 2025, mirroring the trend seen in the United States,
Thoughtful portfolio construction across private markets will be key to capturing diversification and return opportunities in a morphing environment in 2026.
Blockchain and crypto-focused venture capital (BCVC) funds offer a compelling opportunity alongside traditional venture capital (VC) strategies. In this piece, we explore the market dynamics shaping cryptoassets, share our rationale for including BCVC in VC portfolios, and outline key considerations for integration into institutional portfolios.
This report presents an analysis of manager responses submitted via Cambridge Associates’ operational due diligence questionnaire.