Asks about evolving drivers for the continuing bull run.
Vonnie Quinn
Sitara Sundar
AI will continue to bolster tech and the CapEx cycle, supporting AI infrastructure plays like industrials and utilities.
Sitara Sundar
Expect double-digit earnings growth for 7 out of 11 GICS sectors in 2026. Positive on financials (steepening yield curve, capital markets) and healthcare (M&A revival, drug innovation).
Asks if CapEx announcements will be viewed skeptically again this year or if ROI needs to be seen.
Vonnie Quinn
Sitara Sundar
We're moving to a period where markets need to see capital put to work impacting profitability. ROI is critical for justifying CapEx and increasing adoption.
Asks why the tide is turning for core private equity and if the great time starts now.
Vonnie Quinn
Sitara Sundar
Two drivers: 1) Strong IPO and M&A activity from improving sentiment, resilient growth, and easing financial conditions. 2) Underlying earnings growth - median private company grew earnings at 11.5% over past decade, expected to accelerate.
Asks if themes like energy transition or data centers will have better luck in private equity this year.
Vonnie Quinn
Sitara Sundar
Three opportunity buckets: 1) AI application layer (95% of software companies are private). 2) Healthcare innovation (70% via M&A in private markets). 3) Security themes (energy transition, supply chain, defense tech).
Asks how careful private equity needs to be given the importance of trust.
Vonnie Quinn
Sitara Sundar
The private equity industry is stratifying. In a higher rate, higher inflation environment, operational know-how and using AI to improve profitability is critical, moving away from reliance on multiple expansion and leverage.