According to Business Times, the aggregate value of private equity (PE) reached $154.6 billion in Q1 2026, marking a 12.6% increase, driven by AI equity rounds from companies like OpenAI and Anthropic. However, the total number of global transactions decreased by 22%, resulting in 614 deals during the same period.

According to Business Times, AI equity rounds, particularly involving companies like OpenAI and Anthropic, contributed to a 12.6% increase in private equity aggregate value, reaching $154.6 billion in Q1 2026. However, the overall number of global transactions decreased by 22%, totaling 614 deals during the same period.

Equity Group shareholders have approved a KSh 21.7 billion dividend payout, representing a 35.5% increase from 2024. Additionally, the shareholders authorized the establishment of three new insurance subsidiaries in Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Wema Bank has obtained a €50 million financing facility from EIB Global, the European Investment Bank's development arm, aimed at enhancing credit access for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly those owned by women and youth. The agreement was signed in Lagos and represents the first transaction between Wema Bank and EIB Global.

Uganda Airlines has finalized a significant agreement with Boeing to purchase 10 new aircraft, valued at around $985 million. The deal, which includes eight passenger jets and two converted freighters, was signed on June 10, 2026, at State House Entebbe in the presence of President Yoweri Museveni. This acquisition marks the largest fleet expansion for the airline to date.

Beltone's first-quarter results indicate that its acquisition of Baobab, a pan-African lender operating in seven countries, has significantly contributed to its growth strategy. This approach focuses on cross-border expansion rather than traditional market-by-market growth, making Baobab Beltone's largest business just three months post-acquisition.