Private Credit

• Blackstone closed a $10 billion opportunistic private credit fund on April 8, 2026, reaching its hard cap target despite ongoing capital outflows in the sector. • The fund's successful close highlights Blackstone's strength in private credit as investors remain cautious due to market volatility and higher interest rates. • This deal underscores the resilience of top alternative asset managers in attracting institutional capital amid broader private credit struggles.

• Blue Owl Capital investors requested $5.4 billion in redemptions from two private credit funds amid accelerating outflows in the financial services sector. • The fund manager reversed its policy by capping redemptions at 5% to manage liquidity pressures effectively. • This development highlights rising concerns over private credit market stability amid broader economic uncertainties.

Growing stress in the global private credit market contributed to US investors dumping stocks before the March 13, 2026, close, alongside geopolitical risks and hedge fund losses. This pressure, distinct from recession fears, prompted defensive positioning as markets grappled with Persian Gulf uncertainties. Private credit strains, involving non-bank lending to companies, risk amplifying volatility if oil disruptions persist. Watchers note this as a key signal beyond traditional equity drivers.