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How leading private equity firms build an origination advantage

In a tougher market, gain an advantage by combining subsector expertise with the power of AI

The private equity market has never been more competitive. Capital is abundant, quality assets are scarce, and the conventional approach — relying on investment bankers for deal flow — leaves firms competing for the same limited opportunities with little edge to show for it. The data tells the story.

A more challenging deal market

PE firms globally are holding a record $1.7 trillion in dry powder, pushing valuations on quality assets higher. KPMG research shows that US PE deal multiples climbed from 9.6x in 2023 to 11.3x in 2024, easing only slightly to 10.9x in 2025. See how multiples have shifted across the market — and where the pressure points are today.

Learn how top PE firms are building a lasting origination edge

Leading PE firms are responding by building deep, proprietary knowledge in specific subsectors — long before an asset comes to market. Paired with AI-powered deal screening and analysis, this gives them the speed and conviction to win the most sought-after deals.

Dive into our thinking:

How leading private equity firms build an origination advantage in a tougher market

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