Winston Sponsors The Corporate Dealmakers Forum 2025

Winston & Strawn was proud to sponsor the Corporate Dealmakers Forum at the Union League Club in New York. The all-day event explored valuable insights into the latest trends in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, and private equity. Covering new AI considerations and other best practices for closing deals, this informative event offered attendees keys to success in navigating today’s complex deal-making landscape.

Mike Blankenship was a panelist on “Trends in Private Equity and Capital Markets.”

Key Takeaways

• Private Credit Dominance – Direct lenders continue to step in where banks pull back, with bespoke solutions fueling mid-market M&A and recap activity.
• Valuation Gap Narrows – Bid-ask spreads are tightening, driven by renewed competition among sponsors and a more stable rate outlook.
• Tech and Healthcare Rebound – PE appetite is increasing in sectors with strong margins and growth narratives—particularly software, AI infrastructure, and specialty care.
• Dual-Track Optionality – Sponsors are keeping IPO readiness in play, especially for quality assets with scale—positioning for a 2025 window.
• Creative Structuring is Back – PIK toggles, earnouts, minority rollovers, and NAV-based facilities are all tools of the moment in getting deals done.