Bloomberg Deals 7/1/2026

The episode covers a record first-half 2026 for global M&A at $2.6 trillion, driven by AI and deregulation. Key deals include Comcast's planned NBCUniversal spin-off, Blackstone's data center stake sale, and Care Bears' sale to Authentic Brands. Experts discuss M&A trends, the AI-powered surge in power and utilities infrastructure investment, and consolidation in private credit. - Global M&A hits $2.6 trillion in H1 2026, on pace to exceed 2021 record. - Comcast plans to spin off NBCUniversal to unlock shareholder value. - Blackstone sells Virginia data center stakes to Digital Realty Trust in a capital recycling move. - Melissa Sawyer sees healthy M&A pipeline, notes AI as biggest disruption in dealmaking. - Investment committee highlights AI-driven demand boosting power, utilities, and infrastructure. - Care Bears brand sold to Authentic Brands, showcasing value of IP assets. - Ted Goldthorpe dispels valuation concerns in private credit, expects consolidation wave. - Sports deals: Seahawks sale process underway, NBA expansion teams in Las Vegas and Seattle attract interest.