In this episode, we sit down with Aaron T. Slavens, Partner and Chair of the national Private Equity practice at Holland & Knight LLP, to unpack the state of the deal market in 2026. With decades of experience representing private equity funds, founders, and strategic investors, Aaron offers a rare 30,000-foot view of the middle market where most of the real action is happening.
We explore why deal flow remains steady despite wars, tariffs, and interest rate shifts and why exits, not acquisitions, are the real bottleneck. Aaron explains how “dry powder” is still driving competition, why diligence has become far more rigorous, and how creative structures like continuation vehicles and structured equity are reshaping transactions.
He also shares practical advice for business owners preparing for a sale, breaks down how reps & warranties insurance has transformed M&A risk, and offers candid insights on AI’s impact on both private equity and the legal profession.
If you’re a founder, investor, or advisor navigating today’s evolving deal landscape, this conversation is essential listening.
Chapters:
00:00 – Podcast Disclaimer
02:23 – The State of Private Equity in 2026
06:01 – Why SaaS & Software Deal Volume Has Dropped
09:03 – Creative Deal Structures: Continuation Vehicles & Structured Equity
12:53 – Beyond Valuation: Alignment & Management Buy-Ins
17:08 – Should a 70-Year-Old Founder Sell to PE?
25:53 – Reps & Warranties Insurance Explained
29:24 – How Often Do RWI Claims Actually Happen?
32:08 – How Insurance Companies Underwrite M&A Deals
37:46 – AI, Automation & the Future of Professional Services
42:50 – Advice for Law Students in the Age of AI
46:15 – The Growth of Middle-Market Private Equity
48:11 – Why South Florida Is a Deal-Making Hotspot
49:18 – Closing Thoughts & Final Disclaimer
Co-hosted by Element Pointe Family Office CEO and Co-Founder David Savir and CIO and Co-Founder Carlos Dominguez, this podcast explores topics that matter to ultra-high-net-worth families and family offices. Each episode features candid, in-depth conversations with expert advisors, industry leaders, and influential voices across wealth management, investing, philanthropy, cybersecurity, art, travel, private aviation, and more. New episodes released twice a month on Thursdays. Follow us on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcast.
Links:
Element Pointe Family Office: https://www.elementpointe.com/
Mail to: [email protected]
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7zeWi0jLDpbaw90AHsvh5r?si=d856e03ca281479e
Apple Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/on-pointe
Disclaimers:
The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or professional advice. The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any organization or company. The host and guests may maintain positions in any securities discussed on the podcast. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or professional before making any investment decisions.
This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listening to, commenting on, or reading a transcript of this podcast does not establish an attorney-client relationship. If you require legal advice on a specific matter, please consult with an attorney.
Questions: [email protected]
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