Private Equity

Fluctuating market dynamics are driving private equity (PE) firms and portfolio companies to seek additional value creation levers and new strategies to accelerate growth. PE firms need to evolve their operations and investment decisions to stay ahead of the market and deliver stronger returns.


98%
of PEI top 50 buyout firms chose to work with EY in 2025

23,000+
PE specialists worldwide delivering expertise and tailored support

US$1b+
annual spend developing software to provide automation and insights

Solving your complex challenges

CHALLENGE

Seizing opportunities, optimizing deal structures and navigating risks

Executing confidently on transactions is difficult amid macroeconomic volatility, geopolitical complexity and rising competitive pressures. PE firms need to prioritize strong origination capabilities and innovative deal structures to stay ahead.


HOW EY CAN HELP

We combine deep expertise in leading investment sectors with data-driven insights to help clients make strategic investment decisions.

  • Better decisions made faster: Providing clarity on core sector challenges to help funds and portfolio companies make accurate, timely decisions.

  • Validated assumptions and tailored investment strategies: Applying deep sector experience — combined with research and analysis strengthened by AI — to help firms confidently execute on strategic investment opportunities.

  • Accelerated, insight-driven deal execution: Performing comprehensive financial, tax, commercial, operational, IT and cyber due diligence to identify value drivers, optimize deal structures and mitigate risks.

FEATURED

network abilities, technological processes, digital storages, science, education, etc.

Private Equity Pulse: key takeaways from Q4 2025
Cautious optimism gives way to tangible momentum and rising sentiment.

CHALLENGE

Rapidly executing change, unlocking performance across portfolio companies

PE firms under pressure to deliver results quickly are slowed by fragmented data, unclear priorities and operational complexity. Balancing speed with strategic clarity is essential to deliver returns.


HOW EY CAN HELP

We accelerate operational transformation by strategically sequencing change and driving activities to completion, while implementing monitoring and measures for sustainability. Our globally connected teams deploy proven frameworks and advanced technology to help clients deliver measurable results.

  • Accelerated revenue and growth strategies: Helping PE firms and their portfolio companies optimize commercial strategies to enhance brand strength and profitability.

  • Seamless technology adoption: Empowering transformation with responsible, compliant, and ROI-focused data, technology and AI solutions.

  • Enhanced operational and capital efficiency: Delivering smarter cost management, optimized liquidity, and resilient supply chains.

  • Optimized exits: Bolstering exit-readiness early in the lifecycle to support compelling equity stories and maximize exit outcomes.

FEATURED

Man tending to a flourishing bonsai tree on a wooden surface, highlighting the calm and meticulous nature of bonsai care

How portfolio finance functions can drive more value in private equity
Creating a fit-for-purpose portfolio company finance function is becoming more critical than ever to drive value.

CHALLENGE

Leveraging data, technology and AI practically and responsibly for maximum impact

Unlocking the full value of technology, data and AI investments can enable sharper decision-making and optimize portfolios. However, limited data quality, high implementation costs, talent shortages and complex regulatory requirements can make this challenging.


HOW EY CAN HELP

We help clients achieve sustainable growth by seamlessly integrating data, technology and AI into their operations. Advanced analytics, tailored AI solutions and strategic guidance enable smarter decisions, operational agility and continuous innovation.

  • Accelerated, responsible transformation: Establishing robust frameworks and governance so leaders can confidently adopt AI and advanced technologies for high-impact results.

  • Targeted, effective implementations: Designing and deploying practical AI and technology use cases and leveraging our strategic alliance partners to support rapid, value-driven execution.

  • Engaged leadership and teams: Supporting board-level engagement and organization-wide change management to help ensure adoption and alignment.

  • Clear, quantified ROI: Building realistic business cases and value models to demonstrate where, how and when technology investments deliver measurable returns.

FEATURED

Coworkers discussing project on digital tablet on stairs of office building

How GenAI is empowering talent at a PE-backed consumer brand
By using GenAI to remove routine tasks, a global consumer brand is harnessing the creativity of its employees and utilizing their time better.


Our latest thinking

What can private equity do now to finish strong?

Private equity firms exiting assets in the next 12 to 24 months should focus on exit preparation strategies, a new EY study shows. Learn more.

How portfolio finance functions can drive more value in private equity

Creating a fit-for-purpose portfolio company finance function is becoming more critical than ever to drive value. Learn more.

Are you harnessing the growth and resilience of private capital?

Private capital markets have been outperforming equities, offering investors opportunities of higher yields and portfolio diversification. Learn more.


    Shape the future with confidence

    Get in touch with us to learn more about how we can help you maximize value across your enterprise, faster.