David Blue, Managing Director of Debt Capital Markets at KeyBanc, brings deep expertise in private placement strategies and market dynamics. Speaking at the Private Placements Industry Forum 2026, David examined the competitive advantages driving private placement adoption, covering essential topics including market stability, flexible deal terms, and customisable structures that make this financing approach increasingly attractive to institutional investors and issuers alike.
The growing appeal of private placements in 2026
Private placements are rapidly gaining traction as a preferred financing option for issuers and investors alike. At the Private Placements Industry Forum 2026, David Blue, Managing Director of Debt Capital Markets at KeyBanc, shared his expertise on the competitive advantages of private placements, highlighting their stability, flexibility, and growing demand among institutional investors.
Overview of private placements: Stability and flexibility
David emphasised that private placements offer a stable financing option, remaining open to borrowers year-round, even amidst macro-economic volatility. Unlike public bond markets, private placements provide issuers with the flexibility to structure deals of varying sizes and maturities, making them an attractive choice for companies looking to ladder their debt maturity stack.
Advantages for smaller cap companies and REITs
Private placements are particularly beneficial for smaller cap companies and real estate investment trusts (REITs). David noted that private companies, in particular, value the reduced disclosure requirements, allowing them to keep financial information confidential. This makes private placements an ideal solution for companies seeking to maintain privacy while accessing capital.
A record-breaking year ahead
The private placement market is poised for another record-breaking year in 2026. David highlighted the growing demand for private credit, driven by the expansion of investor participation and larger bite sizes for new deals. Over the past five years, the market has seen a significant influx of new investors, further fuelling its growth and adoption.
Risk management in private placements
Risk management remains a cornerstone of the private placement market. David explained that the high percentage of investment-grade debt in private placements, often held by insurance companies, contributes to the market's stability. Advances in technology have also improved transparency and credit review processes, enabling investors and issuers to share information more efficiently and manage risks effectively.
The private placement industry in 2026
David’s insights underscore the growing sophistication and appeal of private placements as a financing tool. From their stability and flexibility to their ability to attract new investors, private placements are redefining how companies access capital in 2026.
Discover more exclusive insights and join the community with industry leaders at Placements Industry Forum Europe 2026, Europe’s only dedicated private placements event. Join us 15–16 September 2026 in Amsterdam.