Boxwood Partners

As we conclude H1 2026, the Private Equity landscape reflects a period of strategic recalibration.

Data from PitchBook and KPMG reveals a complex intersection of macroeconomic headwinds. Q2 2026 deal value dropped 37.5% QoQ to $177.3B, while global H1 investment fell 6% YoY to $333.2B. Fundraising reached its weakest level since 2017 at $373B, and Q1 exit values declined 34% to $96B.

The market remains notably bifurcated. While megadeals persist, the mid-market exhibits caution due to geopolitical uncertainty and private credit stress. Themes such as AI-driven software disruption are redefining platform potential, even as dry powder remains robust at over $2T. Notably, GP-led secondaries continue to serve as a primary liquidity channel.

Navigating this environment requires institutional-grade management and professionalized operations. At Boxwood Partners, we remain committed to advising lower-middle market companies and Private Equity Groups as they leverage value-creation opportunities in this evolving market.

Managing Partner and CEO Patrick Galleher recently joined Gary Occhiogrosso on the Mastermind Minutes podcast from Franchise Growth Solutions for a conversation on mergers and acquisitions, franchising, and building long-term enterprise value.

Drawing on more than 25 years of experience advising founders, franchise brands, and private equity groups, Patrick shares perspectives on preparing businesses for growth, navigating strategic transactions, and what separates companies that achieve exceptional outcomes.

Whether you're a founder, franchise executive, investor, or entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable insights into scaling a business and positioning it for long-term success.

🎧 Watch the full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNJZ-yRjbn4

WHAT MAKES A FRANCHISOR ATTRACTIVE FOR A PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM ATTRACTIVE FOR AN INVESTMENT OR EXIT ? MasterMind Minutes. One Guest- One Question- One Answer Today our...

"Dry Powder Mountain" hit a peak: $4.63T in global callable capital (PitchBook), with $1.3T for buyouts (Bain). After 4,018 US LMM deals in 2025, 2026 shifts to quality. PEGs are selective, prioritizing scalability in the $25M-$500M EV space.

The most resilient competitive advantage is the human moat. Culture and leadership drive hard enterprise value for multi-unit owners. A deep leadership bench and low turnover command premiums at exit. www.boxwoodpartners.com