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Risk in Context Podcast: Amid changing market dynamics, PE firms focusing on risk mitigation

In this episode our hosts discuss some of the top risks that private equity firms should be aware of and share strategies for addressing them effectively. They also recap key takeaways from the recent SuperReturn International conference, where industry leaders discussed a number of today’s most pressing challenges and actions they are taking to remain resilient.

In a complex environment marked by macroeconomic fluctuations, many private capital firms are returning to fundamentals, focusing on risk management and value creation to adapt to shifting investor expectations and a changing deal flow.

Despite a sense of measured optimism regarding the potential for increased deal flow later in the year, senior leaders are taking a cautious approach to investment, focusing on operational excellence and strategic value creation. As firms adapt to changing dynamics, they are also prioritizing  enhanced exit planning and geographical diversification, with Europe becoming a focal point for many PE firms.

At the same time, consolidation among various stakeholders, including banks and insurers, is reshaping the industry and providing new avenues for risk management and investment opportunities.

Against this more challenging landscape, marked by significant uncertainty, these firms are working to improve their insurance strategies, so they are relevant and responsive to today’s risks.

In this episode of Risk in Context, Emily Almond, Global Chief Client Officer within Marsh’s Private Equity and M&A Practice, speaks with John Romeo, Global Head of Oliver Wyman’s Private Capital Business, and Tamsin Coleman, Private Debt Specialist within Mercer Investments. They discuss some of the top risks that private equity firms should be aware of and share strategies for addressing them effectively. They also recap key takeaways from the recent SuperReturn International conference, where industry leaders discussed a number of today’s most pressing challenges and actions they are taking to remain resilient.

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Key takeaways

AI being harnessed for competitive advantage

PE firms are increasingly adopting AI technologies to help analyze data and improve risk assessment and management capabilities, enabling more informed decisions to improve operational efficiency and determine the most effective insurance solutions.

Consolidation trends require risk management attention

The private credit ecosystem is undergoing significant consolidation, with banks and asset managers forming partnerships to enhance deal flow and risk management strategies, reshaping the private capital investment landscape and insurance needs.

Emerging fund structures require innovative insurance solutions

The rise of semi-liquid private credit strategies requires innovative insurance solutions that accommodate investor demands for liquidity while maintaining the benefits of private debt investment, allowing firms to manage risk more effectively.

About our speakers

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Emily Almond

Global Chief Client Officer, Marsh

  • United Kingdom

Emily Almond is the Global Chief Client Officer within Marsh’s Private Equity and M&A Services. With over 18 years of experience, she is a seasoned expert in advising global private capital investors on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), specializing in risk mitigation and transfer to navigate complex operational challenges within portfolio companies. As the leader of Marsh's Private Equity and M&A (PEMA) client strategy on a global scale, she ensures that clients receive relevant, solution-driven advice tailored to their needs.

Tamsin Coleman

Tamsin Coleman

Private Debt Specialist, Mercer

  • United Kingdom

Tamsin Coleman is a Senior Private Debt Specialist within Mercer’s European Private Debt Team. Based in London, she is responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and monitoring private debt investment opportunities across Europe. Prior to that, she worked as an investment consultant within Mercer’s Insurance Investment Solutions business, specializing in private markets strategy. She has been in the financial services industry since 2014, focusing on private markets since the start of her career.

John Romeo

John Romeo

Global Head of Private Capital Business, Oliver Wyman

  • United Kingdom

John Romeo is the Global Head of Oliver Wyman’s Private Capital business, working with leading private equity funds, family offices, and alternative asset managers on business model strategy, deal generation, diligence, and value creation. Prior to these roles, he served as Head of the Americas for Oliver Wyman and has over 30 years of consulting experience, advising the boards and senior executives of the world’s leading private and public sector organizations on strategy, organizational effectiveness, risk management, and M&A.

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