Private equity set to accelerate middle-market M&A as confidence rebounds

Private equity firms are preparing to step up dealmaking in the middle market in 2026, as confidence returns and financing conditions improve, according to a new survey by Citizens Financial.

The survey of roughly 400 executives found that 58% expect M&A volumes to rise this year, with private equity firms becoming more willing to transact after a subdued period.

Confidence among sponsors has strengthened markedly, with 86% of private equity executives saying they felt confident making M&A decisions in the fourth quarter, compared with 48% i…