EY report shows resilient private equity market in early 2026

The EY Private Equity Pulse 2026 report indicates that the global private equity market remained resilient during the first half of 2026 despite prevailing uncertainties. While total transaction values for acquisitions remained largely flat, investors have become significantly more selective.

There has been a notable shift in sector focus. Technology-oriented transactions saw a 50% decrease compared to the same period last year, whereas non-technology transactions increased in value by 9%. Investors are increasingly prioritizing sectors with long-term growth potential, such as energy, defense, healthcare, and digital infrastructure.

Within the digital landscape, interest is expanding beyond pure artificial intelligence applications to include the supporting ecosystem, such as power grids, energy production, cooling systems, semiconductors, and software. Additionally, the total value of exit transactions rose by 9% year-over-year, driven primarily by strategic sales to corporate buyers.