Private credit funds face significant 2026 risks from two AI-related channels: disruption to software borrowers and demand shortfalls in AI infrastructure. These are compounded by liquidity mismatches, sector concentration, and ties to insurers and pensions. Non-bank direct lending, via vehicles like BDCs, has heavily expanded into both areas, heightening vulnerability.
Two Primary AI-Related Risk…
They allow hyperscalers to expand capacity rapidly while keeping the bulk of associated debt off their consolidated balance sheets, converting what would be large capital expenditures into multi-year operating leases or offtake commitments. This creates meaningful “shadow” leverage and interconnected risks.
How the Structures Typically Work
A dedicated vehicle (SPV, joint venture, or variable…