Blackstone's (BX) Perpetual Private Equity Strategy Fund To Acquire Champions Group
Blackstone Inc. (BX) announced that its perpetual private equity strategy fund has entered into an agreement to acquire Champions Group, a prominent home services company. This acquisition, expected to close in the first half of 2026, aligns with Blackstone's strategy to expand into a multi-service powerhouse and build platforms in fragmented industries like home services. Champions Group offers essential residential services with over 1,800 field technicians and 150,000 active members.
NM AG raises questions about $400M stock sale in proposed PNM acquisition
New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez has asked state utility regulators to review a $400 million stock sale between PNM’s parent company, TXNM Energy Inc., and a Blackstone affiliate, alleging it may have violated state law. This action comes amidst a proposed $11.5 billion acquisition of TXNM by Blackstone Infrastructure. Both the AG's office and clean energy advocates argue that the stock sale should have been overseen by the Public Regulation Commission, potentially jeopardizing the acquisition deal.
AMICUS THERAPEUTICS, INC. SEC 10-K Report
Amicus Therapeutics, Inc. has released its annual Form 10-K report, detailing significant financial growth with net product sales of $634.2 million and a reduced net loss, driven by the strong performance of Galafold® and Pombiliti® + Opfolda®. The report highlights strategic initiatives including new product launches, pipeline expansion through licensing DMX-200, and a pending merger with BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. The company also addresses key challenges and risks, such as the BioMarin transaction, reliance on key products, and regulatory and market risks.
EQT buys larger stake in Mountain Valley Pipeline
EQT Corp., in partnership with Blackstone Credit & Insurance, will increase its ownership in the Mountain Valley Pipeline by exercising an option to acquire part of Con Edison's stake for approximately $115 million. This deal follows EQT's regaining partial ownership after acquiring Equitrans Midstream Corp. in 2024. The agreement was finalized on January 2nd and is expected to close in the first half of the year.
11 Analysts Assess Blackstone: What You Need To Know
Eleven analysts have recently rated Blackstone (NYSE: BX), with an average price target of $169.82, a 4.65% decrease from the previous average. While the company demonstrates strong revenue growth and returns on equity and assets, it faces challenges with its net margin and a high debt-to-equity ratio. The article details individual analyst actions, current ratings, and price targets, offering insights into Blackstone's market perception and financial health.
Blue Owl's Redemption Shift Shakes Private Credit Industry
Blue Owl Capital Inc. has disrupted the private credit market by restricting investor withdrawals from one of its retail-focused funds, leading to a sell-off in its shares and those of other alternative asset managers like Apollo, Blackstone, KKR, and Ares. This move, prompted by rising redemption requests and liquidity pressures, shifts focus from credit performance to structural liquidity risk and suggests a reassessment of profit expectations in the rapidly expanding private credit sector. The market is now prioritizing liquidity management and fund structure as much as yield and credit quality.
Earnings call transcript: PPL Corporation’s Q4 2025 solid results despite revenue miss
PPL Corporation reported Q4 2025 EPS of $0.41, meeting expectations, but revenue of $2.27 billion missed forecasts by 5.42%. Despite the revenue miss, PPL's stock rose 1.9% in premarket trading. The company also announced an updated business plan, extending its 6%-8% annual EPS growth target through 2029, supported by $23 billion in capital investments focused on grid modernization and new generation.
Blue Owl's Redemption Shift Shakes Private Credit Industry
Blue Owl Capital Inc. has restricted investor withdrawals from one of its retail-focused funds, Blue Owl Capital Corp. II (OBDC II), sparking concerns across the private credit market. This move, driven by rising redemption requests and liquidity pressures, led to a sell-off in shares of Blue Owl and other major alternative asset managers like Apollo, Blackstone, KKR, and Ares. The event highlights growing investor focus on structural liquidity risk in the rapidly expanding private credit sector.
White House Pushes Trump's Ban On Investors With 100+ Single-Family Homes: Report
The White House is advancing President Donald Trump's proposed ban on investors owning over 100 single-family homes, sending a memo to House and Senate committee leaders. This plan aims to restrict such investors from acquiring more properties, though it includes exemptions for those who build or significantly renovate homes specifically for renting. The proposal has faced skepticism from some experts and Democrats due to perceived limitations and an absence of requirements for investors to divest existing properties.
Shell Asset Management Co. Sells 94,713 Shares of Brown & Brown, Inc. $BRO
Shell Asset Management Co. drastically reduced its stake in Brown & Brown, Inc. by 98.5% in the third quarter, selling 94,713 shares and retaining only 1,453 shares valued at $136,000. Despite this, other institutional investors like Bank of New York Mellon, Invesco, Tandem, and Sumitomo Mitsui increased their positions in the financial services provider. Brown & Brown reported strong Q4 earnings, beating EPS estimates and showing a 35.7% year-over-year revenue increase, and maintains a consensus "Hold" rating from analysts with an average target price of $90.36.
Apollo Global’s $5.9 Billion Earnings in 2025: What the Numbers Really Mean
Apollo Global Management reported record 2025 results with $5.9 billion in combined fee and spread-related earnings, driven by a record $309 billion in asset origination. Despite legal scrutiny regarding historical executive ties and regulatory pressure on private credit, the firm reached $938 billion in AUM and projected significant growth for 2026.
KAHN SWICK & FOTI, LLC FILED A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT ON BEHALF OF SHAREHOLDERS OF SMARTSHEET INC. IN THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON
Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC has filed a class action lawsuit against Smartsheet Inc. in the Western District of Washington, alleging violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 in connection with Smartsheet's acquisition by affiliates of Blackstone Inc., Vista Equity Partners Management, LLC, and the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority. The lawsuit claims the $56.50 per share merger consideration was inadequate and the proxy statement provided materially incomplete and misleading information. Former shareholders who held Smartsheet securities as of October 25, 2024, and believe they were harmed, have until February 24, 2026, to seek lead plaintiff status.
Blackstone Inc. boosts Apple stake with 17,763 shares
Blackstone Inc., managed by Stephen A. Schwarzman, has significantly increased its stake in Apple Inc. (AAPL) by purchasing an additional 17,763 shares. This transaction comes as Apple shows modest gains over the past year, with analysts citing strong iPhone 17 demand, a rebound in China, high gross margins, and growth in Services and AI initiatives. TipRanks’ AI Analyst, Spark, rates AAPL as "Outperform" due to its financial performance and earnings outlook, despite some technical and valuation concerns.
Blackstone Inc. trims Alphabet Class A stake by 58K
Blackstone Inc., managed by Stephen A. Schwarzman, recently reduced its stake in Alphabet Inc. Class A (GOOGL) by 58,457 shares. Despite this, Alphabet Class A shares have seen significant gains over the past year and month, with analysts maintaining a Strong Buy rating due to strong AI and cloud performance. TipRanks' AI Analyst, Spark, rates GOOGL as "Outperform" based on its financial quality, although moderated by technical momentum, valuation, and capital-intensity risks.
Blackstone Inc. Boosts Alphabet Class C Stake by 3,542 Shares
Blackstone Inc., managed by Stephen A. Schwarzman, has expanded its holdings in Alphabet Inc. Class C (GOOG) by 3,542 shares. Alphabet Class C has experienced a substantial 12-month rally of approximately 66%-73%, despite recent minor pullbacks, and analysts maintain a StrongBuy rating due to accelerating search and Google Cloud growth, coupled with strong AI momentum. TipRanks' AI Analyst, Spark, rates GOOG as an "Outperform" due to its robust financial performance and supportive technical trends, though it notes concerns regarding valuation and anticipated capital expenditure increases for 2026.
Blackstone Inc. Boosts Broadcom Inc. Stake by 6,182 Shares
Blackstone Inc., a hedge fund managed by Stephen A. Schwarzman, recently increased its holdings in Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) by 6,182 shares. Despite recent volatility and a slight drop, Broadcom's stock remains significantly higher over the past year, with strong analyst consensus due to its pivotal role in AI ASICs and networking, projecting substantial growth in AI-related revenue. TipRanks’ AI Analyst, Spark, rates AVGO as "Outperform," citing strong financial performance and an upbeat earnings outlook driven by accelerating AI growth, though it notes concerns about stretched valuation and mixed technical signals.
Blackstone Inc. boosts Amazon.com stake with 96,625 shares
Blackstone Inc., managed by Stephen A. Schwarzman, recently increased its stake in Amazon.Com, Inc. by 96,625 shares. Despite recent stock volatility and concerns over capex spending, analysts remain bullish on Amazon due to AWS growth, AI demand, and strong Q4 results, with price targets around $280-$300. TipRanks’ AI Analyst, Spark, rates AMZN as Neutral, citing strong financials and a positive earnings outlook, but is tempered by weaker near-term free cash flow and a demanding valuation.
Blackstone Inc. boosts Nvidia stake, adding 14,585 shares
Blackstone Inc. has increased its stake in Nvidia Corporation (NVDA) by 14,585 shares. TipRanks' AI Analyst, Spark, rates NVDA as "Outperform" due to strong financial performance and positive earnings sentiment, despite noting potential bearish technical momentum and high valuation. Nvidia's focus on AI and data center expansion is expected to drive long-term growth.
Morgan Stanley Slashes Prices for Clients Trading Private Shares
Morgan Stanley has significantly cut fees for clients trading private company shares on its recently acquired EquityZen platform, reducing them from 5% to 2.5% for most transactions. This move aims to expand its presence in the growing private markets, with the head of wealth management indicating a willingness to further lower prices to ensure clients get the best rates. The bank's acquisition of EquityZen, part of a broader trend among financial institutions, reflects the increasing demand from investors for access to private companies and employees looking to monetize their shares.
OCIOs Like Morgan Stanley Target Insurance Assets for Growth
Morgan Stanley and other outsourced chief investment officers (OCIOs) are increasingly targeting insurance assets, particularly driven by insurers' growing appetite for alternative investments like private credit. Sona Menon, head of Morgan Stanley's OCIO business, plans to expand her team in the insurance space, despite the segment currently being their smallest. This move reflects a broader trend of insurance companies outsourcing asset management, as evidenced by significant growth in outsourced insurance AUM and plans for hybrid operating models among insurers.
J&J Explores $20 Billion-Plus Sale of Orthopedics Unit
Johnson & Johnson is reportedly exploring a sale of its orthopedics unit, DePuy Synthes, which could be valued at over $20 billion. The company is preparing documents for potential buyers, including large private equity firms and rival medical device players. This move comes after J&J announced plans in October to separate the slower-growing business, considering options like a spinoff or sale for greater value.
NovaBridge Appoints Biotech Leader, Emmett T. Cunningham,
NovaBridge Biosciences has appointed Emmett T. Cunningham, Jr, MD, PhD, MPH, as Vice Chairman of its Board of Directors to accelerate its global biotech platform. Dr. Cunningham, with over two decades of biopharma leadership and venture capital experience, will also join the Board’s Research and Development Committee. This appointment reinforces NovaBridge's mission to develop transformative medicines and leverage its unique hub-and-spoke model for shareholder value.
Consumer Advocates Could Derail Blackstone’s Utility Acquisition
Consumer advocates are attempting to block Blackstone's acquisition of Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM), New Mexico's largest electricity provider, due to an unauthorized prior equity transaction. Opponents argue that Blackstone's purchase of $400 million in TXNM shares before regulatory approval violates New Mexico law and sets a dangerous precedent for utility acquisitions. Concerns also exist about Blackstone leveraging its ownership for its other portfolio companies, particularly data centers, and the potential impact on utility rates and New Mexico's resources.
Earnings call transcript: Seven Hills Realty Trust beats Q4 2025 earnings expectations
Seven Hills Realty Trust (SEVN) exceeded Q4 2025 earnings expectations with an EPS of $0.29 on revenue of $7.3 million, leading to a 2.89% rise in premarket stock. The company maintained a quarterly dividend of $0.28 per share and strategically invested in new loans, growing its portfolio by 13% year-over-year. For Q1 2026, Seven Hills anticipates distributable earnings between $0.22 and $0.24 per share and aims to grow its total loan portfolio to approximately $1 billion by year-end.
Marriott Vacations Worldwide declares $0.80 quarterly dividend
Marriott Vacations Worldwide (NYSE:VAC) announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.80 per share, representing an annual dividend of $3.20 and a 5.43% yield. The dividend is payable on March 18, 2026, to shareholders of record as of March 4, 2026. The company has maintained dividend payments for 12 consecutive years and is trading below its InvestingPro Fair Value, despite a recent downgrade by Morgan Stanley.
Alarm.com (NASDAQ:ALRM) Reaches New 12-Month Low After Analyst Downgrade
Alarm.com (NASDAQ:ALRM) stock reached a new 52-week low after JPMorgan Chase & Co. downgraded its price target from $55 to $40 and issued an "underweight" rating. Insiders have been net sellers of the stock, while institutions hold a significant portion. Despite the downgrade, the consensus analyst rating remains "Hold" with a target price of $58.50.
Advisor Pulse – Winter 2025
The Advisor Pulse – Winter 2025 report highlights that financial advisors are focused on diversifying client portfolios due to elevated equity valuations and market volatility, with private markets seen as key for long-term capital appreciation and enhanced diversification. Surveyed advisors anticipate the largest allocation increases in private markets, particularly private real assets, which are viewed as attractive for lower valuations, low correlation with public markets, stable income potential, and inflation mitigation. The report is based on surveys of financial professionals participating in Blackstone programming from November 2025 to January 2026 across the U.S., EMEA, and APAC.
Advisor Pulse – Winter 2025
Blackstone's "Advisor Pulse – Winter 2025" report highlights financial advisors' views on diversification strategies amid elevated equity valuations and public market volatility. Advisors see private markets, particularly private real assets, as key for clients seeking long-term capital appreciation, enhanced diversification, and potential inflation mitigation. The survey indicates a strong anticipation for increased allocations to private markets this year.
KeyBanc lowers Global-E Online stock price target on valuation
KeyBanc has lowered its price target for Global-E Online Ltd (NASDAQ:GLBE) shares to $40 from $45, while maintaining an Overweight rating, despite strong fourth-quarter results and optimistic fiscal 2026 guidance. This adjustment reflects current market conditions, even as the company shows impressive revenue growth and other analysts like BofA Securities, Needham, and Citizens reiterate bullish ratings with higher price targets. The firm cited continued momentum in Global-E's services and updated 2026 estimates based on better-than-expected sales trends.
Cumberland Partners Ltd Raises Stock Holdings in KKR & Co. Inc. $KKR
Cumberland Partners Ltd significantly increased its stake in KKR & Co. Inc. by 816.2% during the third quarter, now owning 25,791 shares valued at $3.35 million. Other institutional investors also boosted their holdings, with overall institutional ownership in KKR at 76.26%. The article also details recent insider buying by KKR's co-CEOs and a director, a 76% revenue surge, recent analyst ratings, and the company's financial performance.
BDCs remain resilient despite rise in redemptions
Business development companies (BDCs) are facing challenges such as increased redemptions and credit quality concerns, but analysts still see a positive outlook for these vehicles. While some BDCs have seen negative returns and outflows, non-traded BDCs are growing significantly, attracting more investor capital. Despite these headwinds, some BDCs are performing well, and underlying credit performance remains resilient, supported by declining payment-in-kind usage and regulatory reforms.
EQT Corporation (NYSE:EQT) Q4 2025 Earnings Call Transcript
EQT Corporation reported stellar Q4 and full-year 2025 results, demonstrating strong operational performance, significant free cash flow generation, and robust financial strength. The company exceeded expectations in production, cost structure, and free cash flow, including navigating challenges posed by Winter Storm Fern. EQT plans further investments in high-return growth projects, such as compression and infrastructure, aiming for sustainable value creation and anticipating record free cash flow generation in Q1 2026 and for the full year.
Hyperscale Data’s askROI app exceeds 1.3 million downloads
Hyperscale Data's subsidiary, askROI, has surpassed 1.3 million app downloads. The app offers various generative AI systems within a single interface, supporting multi-model comparison, context-aware reasoning, and collaborative AI workspaces. Despite the app's growth, Hyperscale Data's stock has declined significantly over the past year.
Invesco Earnings Beat Meets Share Weakness As UK Equity Push Grows
Invesco (NYSE:IVZ) reported better-than-expected quarterly revenue and earnings, but its share price fell sharply post-announcement, indicating investors may be focusing on underlying issues like fee pressure or product mix. Concurrently, a senior Invesco strategist is advocating for UK equities as a diversification strategy, highlighting the firm's perspective on regional market opportunities. The report suggests monitoring how Invesco's market views align with its product launches and asset flows, while also noting potential risks such as the dividend not being well covered by earnings and a stretched valuation.
Trip.com Group Limited Sponsored ADR (NASDAQ:TCOM) Receives Average Rating of "Buy" from Brokerages
Trip.com Group Limited Sponsored ADR (NASDAQ:TCOM) has received an average rating of "Buy" from ten brokerages, with an average 1-year target price of $81.25. Recent analyst upgrades and increased institutional investor holdings suggest a bullish sentiment for the online travel services company. The stock opened at $56.63, reflecting a market capitalization of $36.99 billion and a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.06.
Record AUM, Insider Buying And Platform Expansion Could Be A Game Changer For KKR (KKR)
KKR recently reported strong Q4 2025 results with revenue of US$5.74 billion, net income of US$1.15 billion, and record assets under management exceeding US$740 billion. A director's purchase of 50,000 shares, alongside expansion into data centers, logistics real estate, and sports investing, signals growing insider confidence and strategic platform growth. These developments underscore KKR's focus on scaling fee-generating alternatives platforms, despite potential competitive and regulatory hurdles.
VNET Amends Blackstone-Backed 2% Convertible Notes and Preferred Share Terms
VNET Group, Inc. has amended its financing arrangements with Blackstone Tactical Opportunities, including extending the maturity of its US$250 million 2% convertible notes and adjusting terms for its preferred share agreement. These changes aim to refine interest deferral, set detailed conversion mechanics, and link the termination of Blackstone's governance rights to their shareholding reduction. An analyst rating from TipRanks' AI Analyst, Spark, rates VNET as Neutral, citing weaker financial durability but noting constructive earnings guidance and strong IDC-driven growth.
Blackstone Expands Into Essential Home Services With Champions Group Deal
Blackstone (NYSE:BX) has finalized a deal to acquire Champions Group, a major home services provider, with Odyssey Investment Partners retaining a significant minority stake. This acquisition deepens Blackstone's presence in essential service businesses, which are generally less susceptible to rapid technological changes, complementing its investments in AI and digital infrastructure. The move highlights Blackstone's strategy to balance technology-linked assets with more stable, usage-driven businesses, although it introduces additional complexity and potential execution risks.
EQT buys larger stake in Mountain Valley Pipeline
EQT, in a joint venture with Blackstone Credit and Insurance, is set to acquire Con Edison's stake in a pipeline for $213 million. This transaction involves exercising an option to buy compression and mainline assets, and is expected to close this year. The article highlights EQT's increased investment in the Mountain Valley Pipeline.
VNET Group stock tumbles after convertible notes events
VNET Group Inc. (NASDAQ:VNET) stock dropped 12.7% in after-hours trading following the announcement of a Transfer Event and a Minimum Shareholding Event related to its 2% Convertible Notes due 2027. These events, reported by Blackstone Tactical Opportunities investment vehicles, led to the termination of corporate governance rights previously granted to Blackstone investors, raising investor concerns. The company confirmed an Accumulated Interest Amount of $20,125,000.00 on the Transfer Event Effective Date.
Dick's Sporting price buoyed by pivotal resistance - Forecast today - 18-02-2026
DKS stock displayed some positive momentum after holding above a key support level of $197.55, but technical indicators suggest continued bearish pressure. Trading below its 50-day SMA and a short-term bearish trend line, the stock is expected to decline further, especially if it breaks the support, targeting $186.00. The forecast for Dick's Sporting remains bearish for upcoming intraday trading.
Shell Asset Management Co. Sells 14,542 Shares of Corteva, Inc. $CTVA
Shell Asset Management Co. reduced its stake in Corteva, Inc. by 64.3% in the third quarter, selling 14,542 shares and retaining 8,058 shares worth $545,000. Despite this, other institutional investors like Vanguard Group Inc. and Geode Capital Management LLC increased their holdings. Corteva recently reported earnings of $0.22 per share, matching consensus, but revenue of $3.91 billion missed analyst estimates, and the company announced a quarterly dividend of $0.18 per share.
Blackstone Secured Lending Fund stock hits 52-week low at $24.14
Blackstone Secured Lending Fund (BXSL) stock has dropped to a new 52-week low of $24.14, trading 30.3% below its 52-week high with a 1-year total return of -19.17%. Despite this downturn, the fund maintains a 12.5% dividend yield and is profitable with a P/E ratio of 9.2. Separately, Blackstone Private Credit Fund recently issued an additional $100 million in 6.250% notes due 2031, bringing the total outstanding for these notes to $600 million.
Blackstone, EQT and CVC make offers for VW’s Everllence, FT reports
Blackstone, EQT, and CVC have reportedly submitted bids for Volkswagen's diesel engine division, Everllence, which produces shipping engines and heat pumps. The division is valued between 5 billion and 6 billion euros. This potential divestment would allow Volkswagen to focus on its core automotive business amidst challenges like tariffs, Chinese competition, and the costly transition to electric vehicles.
3 Things Every Brookfield Investor Needs to Know
Brookfield Corporation invests its free cash flow in new businesses and holds a significant discount relative to its underlying value. Management projects its intrinsic value to nearly triple by 2030, presenting a strong long-term investment opportunity. The company diversifies through subsidiaries like Brookfield Asset Management and Brookfield Wealth Solutions, alongside publicly traded investment entities in infrastructure, renewable energy, and private equity.
Residents call Blackstone’s proposed TXNM takeover ‘horrifying’ during public comment held at UNM
During a public hearing at the University of New Mexico, dozens of residents expressed strong opposition to Blackstone's proposed $11.5 billion acquisition of TXNM Energy Inc., the parent company of New Mexico's largest power utility. Many present feared that a private equity firm would not act in the best interests of New Mexicans, questioning the offered rate credits and the potential impact on natural resources. State regulators are set to hold more public comment sessions before evidentiary hearings in May.
VNET Group Resets Governance Rights After Blackstone Trigger on 2% Convertible Notes
VNET Group announced that Blackstone funds triggered Transfer and Minimum Shareholding Events related to its US$250 million 2% convertible notes due 2027. This action resulted in the termination of certain corporate governance rights previously held by Blackstone-affiliated investors under VNET's 2022 convertible notes and 2020 preferred share agreements, shifting the ownership influence dynamics. Spark, TipRanks' AI Analyst, rates VNET as "Neutral" due to financial durability concerns, despite raised guidance and strong IDC-driven growth.
Blackstone Secured Lending Fund stock hits 52-week low at $24.14
Blackstone Secured Lending Fund (BXSL) stock has fallen to a 52-week low of $24.14, representing a 30.3% drop from its peak and a 1-year total return of -19.17%. Despite the downturn, the fund maintains a 12.5% dividend yield and a P/E ratio of 9.2. Analysts are closely watching its upcoming earnings report on February 25th for further insights.
News | World's largest asset manager launches industrial REIT
BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, has launched HPS Net Lease Income REIT, a private fund targeting stabilized industrial properties with long-term leases across the United States. This new REIT follows BlackRock's integration of ElmTree Funds and HPS Investment Partners last year. The fund aims to capitalize on growth opportunities in industrial net leases, driven by manufacturing reshoring, e-commerce expansion, and the need for updated warehouse infrastructure.
News | Venture secures $1.46 billion CMBS loan for Plymouth Industrial REIT buyout
Makarora Management and Ares Alternative Credit Funds have secured a $1.46 billion CMBS loan to finalize their acquisition of Plymouth Industrial REIT, marking the largest single-borrower industrial CMBS transaction in two years. The acquisition, valued at $2.1 billion, involves 145 industrial properties across 11 states, covering 32.1 million square feet. Fitch Ratings noted the portfolio's strong leasing performance and its strategic location near major population centers.
