Blackstone(US:BX) 智通财经网·2026-02-17 14:03Core Viewpoint - Blackstone Group is in advanced talks to acquire residential services provider Champions Group for approximately $2.5 billion, indicating a shift in private equity focus towards industries less susceptible to AI disruption [1] Group 1: Acquisition Details - The acquisition is expected to be announced as early as Tuesday, pending any last-minute obstacles [1] - Champions Group, headquartered in Orange County, California, specializes in essential home services such as heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical services [1] - Odyssey Investment Partners invested in the company, then known as Service Champions, in 2021, although specific terms were not disclosed [1] Group 2: Industry Context - The residential services sector is characterized by resilient cash flows, as consumers rely on these providers for essential repairs and maintenance, even during economic downturns [1] - The threat of AI disruption is prompting acquisition firms to pivot their focus towards companies like Champions that operate in more stable industries [1] - Recent investor sentiment has been volatile, with concerns that tools like Anthropic and ChatGPT may negatively impact many software-related businesses under alternative asset management firms [2]