Becker Business Podcast: "Blackstone Returns to Greatness" (08-06-25)

Host: Scott Becker
Release Date: August 6, 2025
Podcast Description: Discussions about business and business news updates with Scott Becker.

Introduction

In the August 6, 2025 episode of the Becker Business Podcast, host Scott Becker delves into the current state and future prospects of Blackstone, the largest aggregator among alternative asset funds. The episode, titled "Blackstone Returns to Greatness," provides an insightful analysis of Blackstone's performance amidst a challenging landscape for private equity (PE) funds.

Blackstone's Performance Amidst Industry Challenges

Scott begins by contextualizing Blackstone's position within the broader private equity sector:

“[00:45] Scott Becker: …most of [private equity funds] are doing well in fee income but having a hard time exiting transactions and really getting that, that 2 and 20 [management and performance fees].”

He highlights a common struggle among PE funds: while fee income remains steady, exiting investments profitably has been difficult, impacting overall returns.

Comparative Analysis with Other PE Giants

Blackstone's performance is contrasted with other major players in the industry:

“[01:10] Scott Becker: Blackstone was down about 20% this year, as were some of the other large private equity funds like KKR, Powell, TPG. Now they're down only 3% year to date.”

This comparison underscores Blackstone's resilience and relatively stronger year-to-date performance, especially when juxtaposed with peers who experienced steeper declines.

Strategic Moves and Growth Initiatives

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on Blackstone's strategic initiatives aimed at reversing past performance trends:

“[02:30] Scott Becker: …acute improvement in their growth and efforts to recruit the very best and the very brightest.”

Scott emphasizes Blackstone's commitment to attracting top-tier talent as a cornerstone of their strategy to enhance performance and expand their assets under management (AUM).

Market Trends and Future Outlook

The conversation also touches upon broader market trends influencing private equity:

“[03:15] Scott Becker: Yes, the S and P and Nasdaq are up year to date, 8, 10% or more, but the private equity funds had been lagging.”

Scott notes the divergence between public market performance and private equity, suggesting that Blackstone's strategies are aimed at bridging this gap.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Wrapping up the episode, Scott offers a positive outlook on Blackstone's trajectory:

“[04:00] Scott Becker: God bless, Blackstone continued, good luck and, and really attested to them the type of talent that they're bringing in.”

He expresses confidence in Blackstone's ability to regain its leading position in the alternative asset management space through strategic hires and focused growth efforts.

Key Takeaways

• Blackstone's Resilience: Despite overall declines in the PE sector, Blackstone has managed to limit its losses to a 3% decrease year-to-date, outperforming peers like KKR, Powell, and TPG.

• Strategic Talent Acquisition: Blackstone is heavily investing in recruiting top talent to drive growth and enhance its competitive edge.

• Market Positioning: By focusing on improving exit strategies and leveraging fee income, Blackstone aims to strengthen its leadership in alternative asset management.

• Positive Outlook: Scott Becker remains optimistic about Blackstone's ability to return to its former greatness through strategic initiatives and market adaptability.

Notable Quotes:

• Scott Becker [00:45]: "Most of the private equity funds are doing well in fee income but having a hard time exiting transactions and really getting that, that 2 and 20."

• Scott Becker [01:10]: "Blackstone was down about 20% this year, as were some of the other large private equity funds like KKR, Powell, TPG. Now they're down only 3% year to date."

• Scott Becker [02:30]: "An acute improvement in their growth and efforts to recruit the very best and the very brightest."

• Scott Becker [04:00]: "God bless, Blackstone continued, good luck and, and really attested to them the type of talent that they're bringing in."

Final Remarks

Scott Becker's analysis in this episode provides a comprehensive overview of Blackstone's current standing and strategic direction within the private equity landscape. By highlighting both challenges and strategic responses, listeners gain a nuanced understanding of what sets Blackstone apart in the competitive world of alternative asset management.