Exploring the surge of private placements in 2026: Why mega deals are ditching public markets

Gain insights from Maria Goroh, Managing Director and Head of Capital Markets at Centrus Financial, who brings expertise in market dynamics and capital allocation strategies. Speaking at the Private Placements Industry Forum 2026, Maria discussed the economic outlook for 2026, highlighting record-breaking issuance volumes as borrowers increasingly turn to private markets instead of public markets and traditional banking. She also explored market challenges, borrower resilience, and the evolving dynamics between issuers and investors.

Private placements: The market of choice for 2026
The private placements market is experiencing unprecedented growth, with record-breaking issuance volumes expected in 2026. Maria explained why borrowers are diversifying away from public markets and traditional banking in favour of private markets for their stability and liquidity.

Drivers of market growth
Maria highlighted key factors driving the surge in private placements:

• CapEx requirements: Large-scale infrastructure projects, such as Heathrow expansion, require significant capital, making private placements an attractive option.
• Resilience and liquidity: Private markets offer stability and liquidity for diverse transaction types, attracting borrowers seeking long-term solutions.
• Technology-driven sectors: The technology boom, including data centres and fibre networks, is fuelling demand for private market financing.

Challenges in the market
While the outlook for 2026 is optimistic, Maria noted several challenges:

• Project delays: Large-scale infrastructure projects often face delays due to construction and supply chain complexities.
• Market overheating: Sectors like fibre and EV charging may experience slower-than-expected adoption rates, leading to stretched balance sheets.
• Regulation and political risks: Infrastructure sectors are subject to regulatory and political uncertainties, though investors continue to treat these risks as part of business as usual.

Despite these challenges, Maria emphasised the resilience of core borrowers, who are well-capitalised and often backed by assets, ensuring stability in the private placements market.

Evolving issuer-investor relationships
Maria observed a shift in how issuers and investors interact, with issuers increasingly seeking direct communication with investors to build trust and ensure access to liquidity amid market volatility. This closer relationship is driven by:

• Refinancing risks: Shorter-term debt issuance due to interest rate repricing has prompted issuers to strengthen ties with investors.
• Constructive engagement: Direct communication fosters a positive, collaborative dynamic and provides issuers with greater confidence.

2026 Insights
Maria’s insights reveal a thriving and resilient private placements market. With record-breaking issuance volumes, strong borrower resilience, and closer issuer-investor relationships, private placements are set to dominate the financial landscape in 2026.

Discover more exclusive insights and join the community with industry leaders at Placements Industry Forum Europe 2026, Europe’s only dedicated private placements event. Join us 15–16 September 2026 in Amsterdam.