We'll See Resumption of Deals: Blackstone's Baratta

Joe Baratta, Blackstone’s global private equity chief, predicts a rebound in deal activity after recent market slowdowns, citing pent-up demand and stabilizing economic conditions. Investors are prioritizing sectors resistant to AI-driven disruption, reflecting growing concerns about automation risks across traditional industries, Baratta noted in an April 2026 interview. He highlighted infrastructure, healthcare, and niche manufacturing as key areas attracting capital due to their insulation from AI-driven volatility and long-term growth potential. Baratta emphasized that private equity firms are shifting strategies to target assets with durable cash flows, avoiding sectors vulnerable to rapid technological obsolescence. The resurgence in deals will likely focus on defensive plays, with firms favoring businesses offering essential services or proprietary technologies less exposed to AI competition.