Private credit has expanded rapidly as institutions seek alternatives to traditional bank lending. At the same time, asset tokenization is emerging as financial firms explore new ways to improve access, transparency, and liquidity in private markets.

SambaNova Systems has secured €850 million in new funding at a €9.4 billion valuation as the AI infrastructure company expands its enterprise technology platform. Meanwhile, Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin is reportedly pursuing an €8.5 billion funding round that would mark its first external investment.

Global equity markets posted their strongest quarter in years, driven by artificial intelligence optimism, resilient corporate earnings, and easing geopolitical tensions, with major U.S. indices reaching record levels.

Direct investment is becoming a core element of private market allocation as institutional investors seek greater control, customization, and direct exposure to operating companies. With private markets now representing 12.5% of global portfolios, capital is shifting toward ownership-oriented strategies. This approach enables targeted exposure and governance influence but requires strong internal capabilities and entails higher concentration risk.