Private Equity Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028F

The Global Private Equity Market was valued at USD 645.2 Billion in 2022 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 13.45% through 2028. The global private equity market stands as a dynamic and influential force within the broader financial landscape. Private equity involves the investment of capital into privately held companies, often with the aim of facilitating growth, operational improvements, or strategic transformations. In recent years, this market has experienced sustained growth, fueled by a combination of factors.

Investors are drawn to private equity due to its potential for attractive returns, typically higher than those available in public markets. The ability to actively participate in the management and strategic decision-making of portfolio companies distinguishes private equity from other investment avenues. This hands-on approach allows private equity firms to implement changes that can enhance operational efficiency and unlock value.

The global private equity landscape is diverse, with funds targeting various sectors such as technology, healthcare, and energy. Additionally, the trend of impact investing has gained momentum, with private equity funds seeking opportunities that align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria.

Challenges in the private equity market include economic uncertainties, regulatory changes, and the need to navigate complex market conditions. Nevertheless, the industry continues to adapt and innovate, leveraging financial expertise to identify and capitalize on lucrative investment opportunities. As the private equity market evolves, its impact on corporate landscapes, job markets, and economic development remains a critical aspect of the global financial ecosystem.

Key Market Drivers

Attractive Returns and Performance

One of the primary drivers of the private equity market is its potential to deliver attractive returns to investors. Historically, private equity investments have shown the ability to outperform public markets, offering investors an opportunity to achieve higher returns. This outperformance is often attributed to the hands-on approach of private equity firms in managing and optimizing their portfolio companies. The ability to actively influence the strategic direction, operational efficiency, and financial performance of investee companies sets private equity apart from more passive investment alternatives.

Private equity funds typically operate with a longer investment horizon compared to publicly traded stocks, allowing for patient capital deployment. This long-term focus aligns with the objective of fostering sustainable growth in portfolio companies, leading to enhanced valuations and returns over time.

Globalization of Capital and Investments

The private equity landscape has witnessed a significant globalization of both capital and investment opportunities. Investors, including pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, and institutional investors, seek geographical diversification to mitigate risks and capture opportunities in various markets. This globalization trend has expanded the reach of private equity funds beyond traditional strongholds in North America and Europe to emerging markets in Asia, Latin America, and Africa.

Developing economies, with their rapid economic growth and expanding middle class, present attractive investment opportunities for private equity firms looking to capitalize on demographic shifts and emerging consumer trends. The globalization of private equity has also led to increased cross-border transactions, fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange within the industry.

Technology and Innovation Investments

The technology sector has become a major focal point for private equity investments. The rapid pace of technological change and innovation creates opportunities for private equity firms to invest in companies at various stages of development, from early-stage startups to mature tech enterprises.

Private equity plays a crucial role in providing the capital needed for research and development, scaling operations, and navigating the complexities of the tech landscape. Beyond traditional technology sectors, private equity funds are increasingly investing in companies across industries that leverage technology to drive efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and stay competitive in the digital era.

The rise of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other disruptive technologies has fueled a wave of investment in technology-focused private equity funds. These funds aim not only to generate financial returns but also to participate in shaping the future of industries through strategic investments in innovative companies.

Demand for ESG Integration

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations have become integral to the decision-making processes of investors across the financial landscape, including private equity. There is a growing awareness that companies with strong ESG practices are better positioned for long-term success, and investors are increasingly seeking opportunities that align with their sustainability goals.

Private equity firms are responding to this demand by integrating ESG criteria into their investment strategies. This involves assessing the environmental impact, social responsibility, and corporate governance practices of potential portfolio companies. Investments in companies with robust ESG profiles are not only seen as ethically responsible but are also believed to contribute to long-term value creation and risk mitigation.

The incorporation of ESG factors in private equity decision-making reflects a broader shift towards responsible investing, where financial performance is evaluated alongside social and environmental impact. This trend is likely to influence the types of companies private equity firms target and the strategies they employ to enhance sustainability within their portfolios.

Low-Interest Rate Environment and Capital Availability

The prolonged period of low interest rates globally has created a favorable environment for private equity investments. With interest rates at historic lows, the cost of borrowing for leveraged buyouts (LBOs) has been relatively inexpensive. Private equity firms often employ leverage as a strategy to amplify returns, using borrowed capital to finance acquisitions and operations.

The availability of low-cost debt has facilitated larger and more leveraged transactions, enabling private equity funds to pursue ambitious investment strategies. However, this environment also raises concerns about excessive leverage and the potential risks associated with a sudden shift in interest rates.

Furthermore, the abundance of capital in the market, driven by institutional investors seeking higher returns in a low-yield environment, has contributed to increased competition for attractive investment opportunities. Private equity firms are under pressure to deploy capital efficiently and differentiate themselves by identifying unique value propositions in a crowded marketplace.

Key Market Challenges

Increased Competition for Attractive Investments

The private equity landscape has become increasingly competitive, with more players entering the market and a surplus of capital seeking investment opportunities. As a result, securing high-quality investments has become a challenging endeavor. The abundance of capital in the market, driven by institutional investors such as pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, and family offices, has led to a "wall of money" seeking lucrative deals.

This heightened competition has several implications for private equity firms. Firstly, it can inflate asset prices, making it more difficult to acquire companies at attractive valuations. Additionally, it may encourage firms to take on higher levels of debt and assume greater risks to outbid competitors, potentially leading to overleveraged portfolios.

To address this challenge, private equity firms must differentiate themselves by leveraging their industry expertise, network, and value-creation capabilities to identify and secure unique investment opportunities. Additionally, they need to explore emerging markets and industry sectors where competition may be less intense.

Regulatory and Compliance Complexity

The private equity industry operates within a regulatory environment that has grown increasingly complex over the years. Regulations vary by jurisdiction and can encompass areas such as taxation, reporting, disclosure, and investor protection. Compliance with these regulations demands significant resources, both in terms of time and money.

The introduction of new regulations or changes to existing ones can have a profound impact on private equity firms' operating models and strategies. For example, stricter regulations related to data privacy or anti-money laundering may necessitate increased due diligence efforts and enhanced compliance protocols.

Additionally, tax laws can significantly affect the structuring of deals and the ultimate returns to investors. Changes in tax regulations can impact the attractiveness of certain investment strategies, such as leveraged buyouts.

To address the challenge of regulatory complexity, private equity firms must stay informed about evolving regulations and engage legal and compliance experts to ensure adherence. They should also maintain a flexible operational framework that can adapt to changing regulatory requirements.

Exit Strategy and Liquidity Concerns

A fundamental aspect of private equity investments is the eventual exit from portfolio companies to realize returns. The choice of exit strategy - whether through an initial public offering (IPO), sale to another company, or recapitalization - can be influenced by market conditions, industry trends, and the financial health of the portfolio company.

The challenge arises when market conditions are unfavorable for exits. Economic downturns, geopolitical uncertainties, or industry-specific challenges can limit the availability of attractive exit opportunities. In such situations, private equity firms may face liquidity concerns, as they need to return capital to investors who may have expected a timely exit.

Liquidity concerns can lead to prolonged holding periods for investments, which, in turn, may impact fund performance and investor satisfaction. To mitigate this challenge, private equity firms must carefully evaluate potential exit scenarios and plan for contingencies. Maintaining strong relationships with investment banks, M&A advisors, and other industry stakeholders can help facilitate timely exits when conditions are favorable.

ESG Integration and Impact Considerations

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations are gaining prominence in the private equity industry, driven by investor demand for responsible and sustainable investments. Private equity firms are increasingly expected to incorporate ESG factors into their investment decision-making processes, due diligence, and portfolio management.

The challenge here lies in effectively integrating ESG principles while also delivering strong financial returns. Identifying ESG risks and opportunities, assessing their impact on investment performance, and implementing sustainable practices within portfolio companies can be complex and resource-intensive.

Moreover, measuring and reporting on ESG outcomes can be challenging, as standardized metrics and reporting frameworks are still evolving. Private equity firms must navigate these challenges to meet investor expectations and align their strategies with broader ESG goals.

Key Market Trends

Tech-Centric Investments

Technology-focused investments have been a dominant trend in private equity for some time, and this trend is expected to continue. Private equity firms are increasingly targeting technology companies at various stages of development, from startups to established tech giants.

This trend is driven by several factors. First, technology continues to disrupt traditional industries, creating opportunities for private equity to invest in companies that are at the forefront of innovation. Second, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the digital transformation of businesses, making tech-centric investments even more appealing. Third, the rise of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other disruptive technologies has opened up new avenues for private equity to explore.

Private equity firms are not only investing in tech companies but also actively participating in their growth and development. They provide the capital needed for research and development, scaling operations, and market expansion, often leveraging their industry expertise to add value beyond just financial backing.

Impact Investing and ESG Integration

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations have gained significant prominence in the private equity industry. Investors are increasingly seeking opportunities that align with their sustainability and impact goals. As a result, private equity firms are integrating ESG criteria into their investment strategies and due diligence processes.

Impact investing, which focuses on generating both financial returns and positive social or environmental outcomes, is on the rise. Private equity funds are actively seeking investments that address global challenges, such as climate change, social inequality, and healthcare access. These investments are not only seen as ethically responsible but also as opportunities for long-term value creation.

To address this trend, private equity firms are building ESG frameworks, conducting thorough ESG due diligence on target companies, and collaborating with portfolio companies to implement sustainable practices. Additionally, they are developing robust reporting mechanisms to track and communicate ESG outcomes to investors and stakeholders.

Co-Investment and Direct Deals

Co-investment and direct deal participation are trends that empower limited partners (LPs) to have a more direct role in the investment process. LPs are increasingly looking to co-invest alongside private equity firms, allowing them to access deals with lower fees and potentially higher returns.

Co-investment partnerships between LPs and private equity firms are becoming more prevalent, especially in large transactions. This trend not only benefits LPs but also provides private equity firms with additional sources of capital and demonstrates alignment of interests.

Additionally, some private equity firms are expanding their capabilities to execute direct deals, bypassing the traditional fund structure. This approach allows firms to have more control over investments and potentially reduce fees. However, it also comes with the challenge of sourcing, evaluating, and managing deals directly, which requires specialized expertise.

Geographical Diversification

While traditional private equity strongholds like North America and Europe continue to be vital markets, private equity is increasingly seeking opportunities in emerging markets. Rapid economic growth, expanding middle-class populations, and evolving consumer behaviors in regions such as Asia, Latin America, and Africa make them attractive targets for investment.

Geographical diversification helps private equity firms mitigate risks associated with over-concentration in a particular market. It also aligns with the quest for higher returns in markets with more growth potential. However, entering new markets requires a deep understanding of local dynamics, regulatory environments, and cultural nuances.

Private equity firms expanding into emerging markets must also navigate currency risk, political instability, and other challenges unique to these regions. Consequently, partnerships with local experts and institutions are often essential for success.

Focus on Healthcare and Biotechnology

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought healthcare and biotechnology investments to the forefront of private equity strategies. The pandemic underscored the importance of healthcare infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology in addressing global health challenges.

Private equity firms are actively seeking investment opportunities in areas such as healthcare services, telemedicine, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology. The goal is to invest in companies that can drive innovation, improve healthcare delivery, and contribute to global public health.

Additionally, the biotechnology sector, including areas like gene therapy, precision medicine, and drug development, has seen significant interest from private equity. These investments have the potential to revolutionize healthcare and generate substantial returns.

While healthcare and biotechnology offer promising investment prospects, they also come with regulatory complexities, clinical trial risks, and long development timelines. Private equity firms must possess the expertise to navigate these challenges effectively.

Resilience and Crisis Preparedness

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a stark reminder of the importance of resilience and crisis preparedness in the private equity industry. Many portfolio companies faced unprecedented challenges during the pandemic, requiring swift and effective responses from private equity firms.

As a result, there is a heightened focus on risk management, scenario planning, and crisis mitigation strategies within the private equity sector. Firms are conducting stress tests, refining contingency plans, and reevaluating their portfolios for resilience to economic shocks.

The ability to adapt quickly and provide support to portfolio companies during crises has become a key differentiator for private equity firms. This trend reflects a broader shift toward a more proactive and risk-aware approach to fund management.

Segmental Insights

Fund Type Insights

Infrastructure has emerged as a rapidly growing and highly attractive segment within the global private equity market. This trend is fueled by several factors, making infrastructure investments increasingly sought after by private equity firms and investors alike.

Firstly, there is a growing recognition of the critical role infrastructure plays in driving economic growth and development. Governments and private sector entities around the world are investing in infrastructure projects to improve transportation networks, upgrade utilities, expand renewable energy capacity, and enhance digital connectivity. Private equity firms are capitalizing on these opportunities to participate in projects with stable, long-term cash flows and often government-backed revenue streams.

Secondly, low-interest-rate environments have made infrastructure investments even more appealing. The availability of inexpensive debt financing allows private equity firms to leverage their capital effectively, amplifying returns on infrastructure projects. Additionally, the long-term nature of infrastructure investments aligns with the patient capital approach favored by private equity, as these projects typically yield returns over an extended horizon.

Thirdly, infrastructure investments are seen as a way to diversify portfolios and provide stability in uncertain times. Their relatively low correlation with traditional asset classes, such as equities and fixed income, makes infrastructure a valuable addition to investment portfolios, especially for institutional investors and pension funds seeking to balance risk and return.

In summary, infrastructure has emerged as a growing and lucrative segment within the global private equity market. Its appeal lies in the essential nature of infrastructure projects, the availability of low-cost financing, and the diversification benefits it offers. As governments continue to prioritize infrastructure development, private equity firms are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global infrastructure.

Sector Insights

Technology has rapidly evolved into a significant and rapidly growing segment within the global private equity market. This transformation is driven by the pivotal role technology plays in modern business and daily life, as well as the potential for substantial returns and innovation within the tech sector.

Private equity firms are increasingly targeting technology-related investments due to several compelling factors. First and foremost, technology companies offer the promise of disruptive innovation, which can lead to substantial growth and competitive advantage. Whether it's in areas like artificial intelligence, blockchain, cybersecurity, or digital health, private equity firms recognize that tech investments can yield substantial returns.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated digital transformation across industries, increasing the demand for technology-focused investments. Remote work, e-commerce, telemedicine, and cloud computing have become central to business operations, emphasizing the importance of technology-driven solutions.

The tech sector's unique characteristics, such as rapid scalability and relatively low capital expenditure requirements, align well with private equity's growth-focused investment approach. Additionally, the availability of venture capital and private equity funding in the tech space has further fueled its growth, as these firms seek to support startups and established tech companies alike.

In conclusion, technology is not only a growing segment but also a driving force in the global private equity market. Private equity firms are increasingly drawn to tech-related investments, recognizing the potential for innovation, growth, and substantial returns in an ever-evolving technological landscape. This trend is expected to continue as technology continues to shape the future of business and society.

Regional Insights

Europe has emerged as a growing and vibrant segment within the global private equity market. This trend reflects the region's evolving economic landscape, increasing investor interest, and a thriving ecosystem of businesses ripe for private equity investment.

One key driver of the growth of private equity in Europe is the region's diverse and dynamic economy. Europe boasts a wide range of industries, from technology and healthcare to manufacturing and financial services, providing ample opportunities for private equity firms to deploy capital across various sectors. This diversity allows private equity investors to target a broad spectrum of companies at different stages of development, from startups to mature enterprises.

Furthermore, Europe has witnessed a surge in entrepreneurial activity, leading to the emergence of innovative startups and high-growth companies. Private equity firms are drawn to these businesses, as they offer the potential for rapid expansion and attractive returns.

Investor appetite for European private equity has also grown substantially, with institutional investors, sovereign wealth funds, and pension funds allocating significant capital to the region. The stable political and regulatory environment, coupled with the potential for value creation and diversification, makes European private equity an appealing asset class for investors seeking risk-adjusted returns.

Additionally, private equity firms in Europe are increasingly focusing on sustainability and responsible investing, aligning with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. This emphasis on ESG considerations not only reflects broader investor trends but also positions European private equity as a leader in responsible and sustainable investing practices.

In summary, Europe has become a thriving and promising segment within the global private equity market. Its diverse economy, entrepreneurial spirit, and increasing investor interest make it an attractive destination for private equity investments. As the region continues to evolve, European private equity is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry.

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Private Equity Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Private Equity Market, By Fund Type:

• Buyout
• Venture Capital (VCs)
• Real Estate
• Infrastructure
• Others

Private Equity Market, By Sector:

• Technology
• Healthcare
• Financial Services
• Energy & Power
• Others

Private Equity Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• Indonesia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Turkey
• South America
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Brazil

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Private Equity Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Private Equity market report with the given market data, the publisher offers customizations according to a company's specific needs.


This product will be delivered within 1-3 business days.