Private Equity in 2026: AI, Deal Slowdowns, and What Comes Next

Sean Mooney, Founder and CEO of BluWave, breaks down the firm's Q1 2026 Private Equity Insights Report and what it signals for investors and operators navigating a volatile environment. He outlines how geopolitical shocks are once again stalling deal activity, why the economy remains surprisingly resilient, and how private equity firms are leaning harder into value creation. Sean also explains the shift of AI from buzzword to real execution—and why data readiness is now a competitive imperative. This is a clear-eyed view of the current market and where private equity leaders should focus next—hit play.

Episode Highlights

• 1:15 - "Groundhog Day" returns as geopolitical shocks stall deal momentum
• 3:20 - Why sellers pause deals: the need for 4–6 months of visibility
• 5:30 - Economic resilience despite inflation, tariffs, and uncertainty
• 7:10 - PE firms increase focus on value creation during market slowdowns
• 10:30 - AI demand surges 280% as firms move from experimentation to execution
• 16:10 - Data readiness becomes the defining advantage in AI adoption
• 23:20 - Why deal activity must rebound: liquidity pressure and dry powder

For more on BluWave, visit: https://www.bluwave.net/
To request the full Q4 2025 Insights Report, visit: https://www.bluwave.net/insights-report/