FTI Consulting releases 2026 Private Equity Index

FTI Consulting released its 2026 Private Equity Value Creation Index, a global survey of over 550 senior private equity leaders. The report highlights that artificial intelligence (AI) is accelerating value creation, while mergers and acquisitions (M&A) has emerged as the top value driver despite taking longer to deliver results. Key findings indicate that private equity firms are achieving measurable impact more quickly, with 63% seeing results within 12 months. AI-driven benefits are also increasing, with 66% of respondents reporting benefits within 12 months. M&A has shifted from the lowest-ranked lever in 2025 to the top priority in 2026, with 51% of respondents exceeding their M&A business case. However, M&A remains the slowest value creation lever, and implementation of both AI and M&A still faces execution gaps. High-performing firms, representing 40% of respondents, consistently outperform their peers in both AI and M&A outcomes by adopting active, structured approaches.