FORWARD FEATURES CALENDAR

Deals

Sixth Street acquires majority stake in Sunderland AFC Women

Sixth Street has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Sunderland AFC Women, marking its first investment in UK football as institutional capital continues to target the growth of the women’s game, according to a report by Bloomberg.

KKR-backed SmartHR explores Tokyo IPO

Japanese HR platform SmartHR Inc, which counts KKR, General Atlantic, and Sequoia Capital among its investors, is reportedly considering a Tokyo IPO later this year, targeting a valuation of roughly $1bn (JPY160bn), according to a report by Bloomberg.

GTCR acquires LiveBarn in $400m-plus deal

US private equity firm GTCR LLC has completed a $400m-plus acquisition of Montreal-based LiveBarn Inc, a live-streaming platform for amateur and youth sports across North America, according to a report by the Globe and Mail.

Global private equity buyouts decline sharply in Q1

PE buyout activity fell sharply in the first quarter of 2026, as dealmakers grappled with uncertainty in technology markets and geopolitical tensions. Firms completed acquisitions worth $172bn in Q1, a 36% decline from the previous quarter and an 8% drop from the same period last year, according to Dealogic.

PE exits slow as AI disruption and geopolitical tensions weigh on markets

Private equity firms have sharply reduced asset sales in early 2026, as a combination of artificial intelligence-driven volatility and escalating geopolitical risks – particularly conflict involving Iran – adds fresh strain to an already fragile exit environment, according to a report by Bloomberg.

Hg-backed Visma pushes London IPO to 2027

Private equity-backed Visma, owned in part by Hg Capital, has reportedly delayed its planned initial public offering in London until next year, according to a report by Bloomberg citing unnamed sources familiar with the matter.

Events

12 November, 2026 – 5:00 pm

Directory Listings