The Allocation: Private Markets for the Total Portfolio

Credit fundamentals remain strong, but rising interest rates, AI disruption and growing dispersion across sectors are reshaping the direct-lending landscape. Apollo Partner and Co-Head of Global Performing Credit Jim Vanek joins host Tal Barak Harif to discuss where we are in the credit cycle, why current market conditions may be creating more attractive opportunities for lenders, and how Apollo is navigating the risks and opportunities ahead.

Private equity deal and exit activity have picked up in 2026, but valuations remain elevated and the macro environment is still demanding. How is this shifting PE allocations? Diana Sands and equity product specialist Bryn Gostin dive into what's actually changed in the market, how drawdown and evergreen structures can play distinct roles in a portfolio and what it takes to construct a durable PE allocation when the old playbook no longer applies.

From digital to power grid modernization, from transport to environmental services, infrastructure represents a projected $75+ trillion in investment over the next decade. Apollo Partners Harry Seekings and Vittorio Lacagnina have spent decades in infrastructure investing, and here they discuss what Seekings sees as a “generational” opportunity. They also discuss how Apollo approaches the asset class across the full capital structure and why the potential for stable cash flows, inflation protection, and low correlation to public markets can make infrastructure a significant portfolio diversifier for both institutional and wealth investors.

As 2026 enters its final stretch, Apollo Chief Economist Torsten Slok joins The Allocation to discuss the latest shifts in the economy and markets. On the heels of the Fed’s September rate hike, he shares his views on why inflation remains so sticky and what a “higher-for-longer” rate environment could mean for consumers, businesses and investors. Torsten also examines the continuing AI investment boom and its impact on economic growth, jobs and financial markets. Looking ahead, he highlights the key themes helping to shape his outlook for 2027.

For more insights from Torsten, subscribe to his Daily Spark newsletter at Apollo.com/daily-spark.

Record issuance from the AI buildout is creating a broader menu of opportunities for fixed income investors across public and private markets. In our latest conversation covering the convergence of public and private debt markets, Apollo Partners Brian Weinstein, who leads Fixed Income Replacement, and John Cortese, Co-Head of Corporate Credit and Head of Trading, discuss how this issuance is changing market structure, creating dispersion and expanding the range of risks and opportunities fixed income investors may need to evaluate.

For more insights on credit markets, check out our Midyear Credit Outlook: https://www.apollo.com/wealth/insights-news/insights/2026/08/2026-midyear-credit-outlook