Story perspectives

Private Equity Surges 40% to $308 Billion in 2025

8/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Private-equity deals exceeding $100 million reached $308 billion in the first half of 2025, a 40% increase from 2024, per EY.
Thoma Bravo, Chicago's largest private-equity firm, manages $184 billion, primarily investing in software companies.
Thoma Bravo intends to merge Verint with Calabrio, pending shareholder approval, amid rising M&A activity despite economic uncertainties.
The software and healthcare sectors are driving M&A, with a preference for larger deals in 2025.

History

Historical Context

The 2008 financial crisis triggered widespread bank failures, leading to significant government bailouts, including JPMorgan Chase. In the years following, JPMorgan's strategic acquisitions and branch expansion have strengthened its market position, resulting in a 23.5% stock increase in 2023, outpacing the S&P 500's 9.8%. This resilience highlights the banking sector's recovery and transformation since the crisis.

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Story summary

Private-equity deals exceeding $100 million reached $308 billion in the first half of 2025, a 40% increase from 2024, per EY.
Thoma Bravo, Chicago's largest private-equity firm, manages $184 billion, primarily investing in software companies.
Thoma Bravo intends to merge Verint with Calabrio, pending shareholder approval, amid rising M&A activity despite economic uncertainties.
The software and healthcare sectors are driving M&A, with a preference for larger deals in 2025.

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