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Investors Warn of ‘Rot in Private Equity’ as Continuation Funds Draw Criticism
Dec. 24, 2025 - Major institutional investors are increasingly sounding alarms about private equity continuation funds, arguing that the rising use of these vehicles — where firms sell portfolio companies to new funds they control — creates conflicts of interest, opaque valuations and potential disadvantage to original investors. Critics, including prominent pension plans, say this trend reflects deeper structural issues in the industry as traditional exit routes dry up amid a backlog of assets and challenging market conditions; the growing continuation fund market — expected to exceed $100 billion in value — has drawn comparisons to circular deals that benefit sponsors at investors’ expense. The debate has intensified alongside legal challenges and calls for greater transparency and oversight of continuation vehicles and GP-led secondary deals. (The New York Times)
United Launch Alliance CEO Resigns Amid Rising Rocket Competition
Dec. 23, 2025 - Tory Bruno stepped down as chief executive of United Launch Alliance (ULA) after nearly 12 years leading the Boeing and Lockheed Martin joint venture, as competition from SpaceX and other launch providers continues to intensify. His exit comes as ULA works through delays to its Vulcan rocket program while facing pressure on launch cadence and market share in the national security and commercial launch markets. The company named an interim chief executive as it seeks to stabilize leadership and improve execution amid a rapidly evolving competitive landscape. (Seeking Alpha)
Howmet Aerospace Takes Ownership of CAM
Dec. 23, 2025 - Howmet Aerospace has completed the acquisition and taken full ownership of Composite Additive Manufacturing (CAM), strengthening its advanced materials and additive production capabilities. The deal is aimed at scaling composite and additive manufacturing for aerospace customers and expanding Howmet’s footprint in next-generation materials. Howmet said the integration will support broader industrial and defense aerospace markets with enhanced supply resilience. (AviTrader)
Final Full-Scale Prototype Joins Vertical Aerospace Fleet
Dec. 23, 2025 - Vertical Aerospace announced the addition of its final full-scale prototype aircraft to the company’s fleet as part of ongoing development of its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The prototype will support high-speed aerodynamic testing and systems validation ahead of certification efforts. Vertical said the expanded test fleet helps accelerate its path toward commercial service and refinements in safety and performance. (AINonline)
Boeing Targets FAA Waiver to Boost 777F Freighter Sales
Dec. 23, 2025 - Boeing is seeking a waiver from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to allow 777F freighter deliveries to begin before full certification of structural modifications aimed at improving long-range performance. The effort is intended to reduce lead times and support strong market demand for large cargo aircraft amid global supply chain pressures. Boeing officials say the waiver could accelerate sales and acceptance by international carriers while compliance work continues. (Mexico Business News)
South Korea’s Aerospace Industry, Airbus Sign Contract for Maintenance Work
Dec. 23, 2025 - South Korea’s aerospace sector and Airbus signed a new agreement for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services on Airbus aircraft operated by Korean carriers. The contract is aimed at expanding local aerospace capabilities and supporting long-term collaboration on technical support and parts supply. Officials said the deal enhances Korea’s role in regional aviation support while strengthening ties with Airbus. (UPI)
