Asset Management and Private Equity CEO Outlook
Asset Managers and Private Equity leaders are increasingly bullish
The KPMG Global CEO Outlook, which surveyed 1,350 global leaders in late 2025, provides a deep dive into the evolving mindsets, strategies, and tactics of the C-suite. A dedicated subset of this research—the Asset Management and Private Equity CEO Outlook—polled 110 global industry leaders to explore how their firms are leveraging AI and digitalization to gain a competitive edge. The findings reveal a surge of optimism: fueled by falling interest rates, rising valuations, and record assets under management, CEOs are now poised to deploy significant dry powder while navigating an increasingly complex landscape. To deliver alpha and drive outsized returns, these firms are now prioritizing talent upskilling and value-creation strategies.
Here are the key trends and strategic priorities currently defining the future of the industry.
1
Growing sector optimism:
Falling interest rates, rising valuations, and record-high global assets under management have created a "green light" environment, leading to increased CEO confidence and a readiness to deploy dry powder.
2
AI as a value driver:
Investment in digitalization and AI is a top priority. CEOs are focused on how AI can create competitive advantages for their funds, organizations, and portfolio companies.
3
Cybersecurity dualism:
Cybersecurity remains a primary concern, with AI viewed as both a source of significant risk and a strategic opportunity.
4
Strategic specialization:
After two years of sharpening their focus, managers are emphasizing sector specialization and innovation to achieve alpha and execute meaningful exits.
5
Talent and upskilling:
To maximize value, leaders are proactively upskilling their workforce, updating workplace models and forming new partnerships to drive AI adoption.
6
Resilience against headwinds:
Despite geopolitical influences, uneven regulation, and cybersecurity threats, the majority of CEOs are prepared to move forward aggressively to avoid the risks of inaction.
Dive into our thinking:
Discover how industry leaders are sharpening their focus to drive outsized returns.
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