Cloud 9fin

While many European direct lenders are struggling to hit their fundraising targets, Hayfin has just pulled in more than €15bn.

On Cloud 9fin, Synne Johnsson speaks with Hayfin’s head of direct lending Mark Bickerstaffe about fundraising, deployment and the changing balance of power in European private credit. He explains how investor diversification away from the US has helped Hayfin attract capital.

The conversation also examines portfolio resilience, inflation risks and artificial intelligence. Looking ahead, it touches on refinancing challenges around 2028 and 2029 maturities, opportunities in capital solutions and asset-backed lending, and reasons for cautious optimism about deal activity later in 2026.

Have any feedback for us? Send us a note at podcast@9fin.com. Thanks for listening!

Creators and Guests

Producer
Chase Collum
Head of Podcasts for 9fin Limited

What is Cloud 9fin?

Leveraged finance, distressed debt, and private credit drive today’s markets. Cloud 9fin delivers expert insights on high-yield bonds, syndicated loans, direct lending, and debt restructuring. Join top analysts and investors as we explore credit markets, special situations, and private debt strategies shaping the industry.

From credit risk assessment to institutional credit trends, each episode provides actionable intelligence for fund managers, institutional investors, and financial professionals. Whether you’re tracking high-yield issuances, analyzing corporate debt, or uncovering distressed debt opportunities, we’ve got you covered.

Through its AI-powered data and analytics platform, 9fin provides everything you need to get your head around credit or win a mandate — all in one place. We help subscribers win business, outperform their peers and save time. Stay ahead in leveraged finance market trends—subscribe now for expert discussions on the forces moving global credit.