Blackstone Fund Holds 1.2× Leverage, $2.5B Liquidity as Lending Jumps 50%
Fund maintains average leverage around 1.15×–1.2× with $2.5 billion liquidity, no plans for dilutive equity raises and dividend policy tied to NAV preservation. Direct lending volume rose over 50% quarter-over-quarter while default rates fell roughly 30% in 2025, signaling improving deal flow.
1. Capital Management and Liquidity
The fund maintained an average leverage ratio between 1.15× and 1.2× at year-end, supported by roughly $2.5 billion of available liquidity. Management reaffirmed no plans for dilutive equity capital and tied its dividend policy to long-term NAV preservation and earnings stability.
2. Lending Activity and Credit Trends
Direct lending commitments exceeded $500 million for nine consecutive quarters, with fourth-quarter volume rising over 50% quarter-over-quarter. Default rates declined by roughly 30% in 2025, highlighting improved credit conditions and a recovering deal environment.
3. Software Portfolio and AI Risk Mitigation
The fund’s software exposure represents about $4.5 billion of enterprise value with an origination LTV of 37%, effectively providing a 50% buffer after haircuts. Diversification spans over 12 subsegments and 100 positions, reducing disruption risk amid AI-related concerns.
4. Economic and Spread Environment
Management noted resilient corporate earnings, consumer spending, and accelerating GDP growth, which alongside declining rates offer a tailwind for credit investors. Private credit spreads tightened to the low end of a 500–600 basis point range, with discipline and low debt costs critical for navigating potential widening.