The 2026 MSCI General Partner Survey: The Scaling Imperative
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It will take more than capital to scale private markets. The signal is unmistakable: general partners (GPs) are directing budget toward data, analytics and AI, yet many operating models were not built for this level of complexity. As limited partners (LPs) raise expectations on realized performance, the gap between ambition and capability is clear. The question is whether firms will have the infrastructure, governance and workflows to respond credibly.
- LP pressure: The performance conversation has shifted from paper marks to realized cash, and LPs now expect proof that distributions will follow. GPs feel that pressure across the fund lifecycle.
- Technology gap: Advanced data, technology and AI capabilities are the biggest capability gap in the industry, cited by 48% of GPs and rising to 63% at mid-size firms as operational complexity outgrows legacy systems.
- Risk readiness: Emerging risks are compounding faster than governance models are adapting, leaving preparedness gaps across macro, geopolitical and technology risks.
Our 2026 survey reflects the input of 130 GPs across 12 countries and shows how firms are responding to these dynamics. Read the report for a view into how peers are adapting their operating models and where the next competitive advantage may emerge.
Concern outpaces preparedness on the risks GPs rank highest, and the gap is widest for AI and technology, where 52% are concerned but only 36% feel ready to respond.
Source: The 2026 MSCI General Partner Survey, April 2026. Based on responses from 130 GPs who were asked to rate their firm's level of concern about emerging risks over the next 24 months and, separately, their level of preparedness to mitigate or manage the impact of those risks.
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