Western Europe

Canadian investor Polar Asset Management has secured more than $215m for the first close of its second dedicated significant risk transfer (SRT) fund, expanding a strategy that has emerged as a key way banks are managing regulatory capital while opening a fast-growing niche for private credit investors.

Exponent has completed a roughly €750m single-asset continuation vehicle for Irish electrical engineering specialist H&MV, extending its ownership of one of Europe's fastest-growing infrastructure services businesses at a €1.4bn valuation.

Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan posted a 9.5% net return for the first six months of 2026, with its venture growth portfolio emerging as the largest contributor to performance as the Canadian pension fund’s assets surpassed C$300bn.

Italy-focused private markets manager Nextalia has held a €1.1bn first close for its second flagship private equity fund, securing one of the country's largest pools of capital dedicated to mid-market buyouts just five months after launching the raise.

Apollo Global Management has agreed to acquire UK-listed airline easyJet in a £5.7bn transaction, ending a competitive bidding process after rival suitor Castlelake withdrew.

South Park Commons has closed its fourth fund on $575m, more than double the size of its predecessor vehicle, as the early-stage investor looks to hold larger positions in portfolio companies beyond their formative stages.

White Star Capital has held the final close of its fourth flagship venture fund at $250m to target Series A and B dealmaking in AI-driven companies.

Energy Capital Partners has closed its sixth flagship infrastructure fund on $8.1bn, more than 80% larger than its predecessor and well above its original $5bn target.

Alpaca Real Estate has completed the final close of its inaugural fund on about $223m, joining a select group of first-time real estate managers to secure institutional backing in what remains a difficult fundraising environment for emerging GPs.

Partners Group has entered exclusive discussions to acquire a majority stake in Aroma-Zone, a French natural beauty, wellness and selfcare brand, from Eurazeo.