The state of private markets: Industry leaders share their outlook for the future at SuperReturn International 2025

Dry powder remains high, fundraising remains low and the PE industry seems to be reaching a significant turning point as distributions are overtaken capital calls. As interest rates declines and credit markets improve PE firms must adapt through sector specialisation, the disruption of AI and navigate global regulatory and geopolitical challenges. But how is this actually done in the field? At SuperReturn International we spoke to some of the leaders in the industry about how they've navigated the past 12 months, how to ensure success and what they believe will be crucial to staying afloat in the next year.

Orlando Bravo, Thoma Bravo, on building excellence in a volatile environment

The past 12 months has been the busiest of Orlando Bravo's career, and whilst it's been successful, it has not been without it's challenges. We sat down with Orlando to discuss his biggest learnings from the last year, and dissect some of the key measures to establish teams built for success in a volatile market. Learn about:

• Why sector specialisation is key to success and how the days of being a generalist in PE are over
• Reflections on successful deals from the past year
• The need for operational expertise to add value to companies
• The impact of team motivation and mentorship
• The enduring appeal and growth potential of the private equity industry
  
  

Ian Charles, Arctos Partners, on generating alpha in maturing markets

Hear from Ian Charles, Managing Partner, Arctos Partners, who speaks about innovation in the private markets industry and how firms must focus on generating alpha to attract in investors in a more complex geopolitical and economic environment. Watch the full interview to learn about:

• Key challenges facing the industry
• How the industry has matured and what conditions this creates for the market
• Why generating alpha and embracing tech is crucial to thriving in an evolving market
• Future trends and challenges
  
  

Leveraging manager selection and shaping the future of private equity with Dana Haimoff, J.P Morgan Asset Management

After 32 years in the private equity industry, Dana Haimoff, Managing Director, Portfolio Manager, J.P.Morgan Asset Management, has more experience navigating changing economic waters than most. We caught up with her to chat about the current investment landscape and how the industry has responded to the ongoing macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges. Watch the interview to learn more about:

• The increasing importance of meticulous manager selection
• Opportunities in the mid-market and other resilient sectors
• What role AI and tech will play in the future of investing and fostering talent
• Her outlook on the next 12-18 months

"Show me a real exit": Private markets in a capital-starved world with Richard Hope, Hamilton Lane

Richard Hope, Managing Director at Hamilton Lane, joined us at SuperReturn International to share his insights on navigating global macro headwinds, the importance of liquidity, and the evolving role of AI and infrastructure in private markets. Watch the interview to learn more about:

• The liquidity crisis: Why "show me a real exit" has become the buzz phrase of the industry.
• The growing interest in European private markets and the opportunities it presents.
• How AI is driving efficiency and creating new investment opportunities in energy and data centers.
• Why a steady, long-term approach is critical to success.

Strategies for building value and resilience with Rebecca Gibson, Oakley Capital

"We find it important to have multiple value creation levers in our portfolio company plans." That's how Rebecca Gibson, Partner, Oakley Capital describes navigating uncertainty and mitigating against volatility. Watch the full interview to get her thoughts on:

• The constant flux in global markets on how companies can focus their business models and strategies to suit this
• Why working with founders and focusing on emotional intelligence is more important than ever
• The uptic in Europe compared to the US and Asia, presenten unique opportunities
• The crucial importance of diversity and initiatives like Level20