Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Quarterly fee-related earnings grew 17% year-over-year to $754 million, while distributable earnings increased 7% to $661 million [5][25] - Fee-bearing capital reached $581 billion, an 8% increase year-over-year, driven by record fundraising [5][24] - The company raised $30 billion in the third quarter, bringing total inflows over the past 12 months to more than $100 billion, marking the highest pace of organic fundraising ever [6][27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The infrastructure and renewable power franchise raised $30 billion, deployed $30 billion, and monetized over $10 billion at approximately 20% returns over the past 12 months [11] - The company is launching an AI Infrastructure Fund, anticipating AI-related infrastructure investments to exceed $7 trillion over the next decade [13] - In the private equity business, the company launched its seventh vintage of its flagship strategy, focusing on essential service businesses [18][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global M&A volumes increased nearly 25% year-over-year, with $1 trillion in announced deals in the third quarter, the highest level since 2021 [6][7] - The company noted improving transaction conditions and a resilient global economy despite trade uncertainties [6][7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to double its business by 2030, with plans to expand product offerings and diversify its investor base [30][31] - A landmark partnership with the U.S. government to construct $80 billion of new nuclear power reactors was announced, positioning the company at the center of clean baseload power development [18] - The company is focused on capturing opportunities in AI infrastructure, energy transition, and essential real assets, aligning with global trends of digitalization, decarbonization, and deglobalization [23][33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in a strong fundraising year for 2026, expecting to exceed 2025 levels [34][35] - The company anticipates continued growth in fee-related earnings driven by acquisitions and new fundraising initiatives [36] - Management highlighted a solid balance sheet and a strong liquidity position, with $2.6 billion in liquidity at quarter-end [31][32] Other Important Information - The company declared a quarterly dividend of $43.75 per share, payable on December 31 to shareholders of record as of November 28 [32] - The company is actively monetizing stabilized assets, selling approximately $23 billion of properties over the past 12 months [20][22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Fundraising momentum into 2026 - Management expects fundraising in 2026 to exceed 2025 levels, driven by infrastructure and private equity flagships [34][35] Question: Credit business fee rates - The elevated fee rate in the credit business was driven by a mix shift and one-off transaction fees, with a positive trend expected [37][39] Question: Oaktree acquisition benefits - The acquisition of Oaktree will unlock operational synergies, enhance marketing capabilities, and improve client service [42][44] Question: Retail market momentum - The company is seeing robust momentum in the retail market, with new product launches expected to drive growth [45][46] Question: Corporate direct lending outlook - Management noted that while competition in corporate lending is intensifying, private credit remains a significant and growing component of global finance [49][52] Question: Private equity fundraising outlook - The company is optimistic about raising its largest private equity fund ever, focusing on essential assets that generate consistent results [56][57]