AI-Driven Private Markets Set Stage for 2026 Opportunity

Blackstone’s 2026 Investment Perspectives argue that AI-driven productivity, moderating inflation, and cheaper capital underpin a multi-year expansion in private markets across private equity, real estate, credit, and infrastructure. AI is driving a significant CapEx cycle in data centers, chips, and digital infrastructure funded largely from cash flow, with growth being resilient but uneven as labor markets cool. A rebound in deal activity and exits, aided by lower financing costs, supports a cyclical upswing; real estate is in early recovery, private credit offers durable income with downside protection, and infrastructure demand remains strong from energy transition and AI needs. International markets show opportunity in India and Japan, with Europe offering selective bets. Blackstone stresses disciplined underwriting, data-driven insights, and platform scale to capitalize in 2026.