Tom Hayes – Fox Business Appearance – Charles Payne – 4/20/2026

Key Takeaways

• Thomas Hayes discussed Great Hill Capital's growth strategy on Fox Business
• Hayes highlighted opportunities in technology and consumer sectors for 2026
• Hayes warned about rising interest rates impacting private equity valuations
• Charles Payne facilitated dialogue on market volatility and investor sentiment

Pulse Analysis

Great Hill Capital’s chairman Thomas Hayes used the Fox Business platform to articulate the firm’s forward‑looking investment thesis, a move that underscores the growing importance of media appearances for private‑equity leaders. By pairing with veteran host Charles Payne, Hayes reached a broad audience of institutional investors and high‑net‑worth individuals, offering a rare glimpse into the firm’s allocation preferences. The interview highlighted Great Hill’s emphasis on technology and consumer brands, sectors that have outperformed the broader market in 2025 and are projected to drive earnings growth through 2027.

In the discussion, Hayes warned that the Federal Reserve’s incremental rate hikes could compress private‑equity multiples, especially for leveraged buyouts with high debt loads. He stressed the need for disciplined capital deployment and a focus on cash‑flow‑positive businesses that can weather tighter financing conditions. This perspective aligns with industry data showing a 15% decline in average deal size across the private‑equity market in the first quarter of 2026, prompting firms to prioritize operational improvements over aggressive expansion.

For investors, Hayes’ commentary offers a barometer of how top‑tier firms are adjusting to macroeconomic headwinds while still seeking upside in high‑growth niches. The emphasis on technology and consumer resilience suggests that Great Hill may increase exposure to digital platforms, fintech, and branded retail concepts, sectors that have shown robust demand despite inflationary pressures. As market volatility persists, the firm’s cautious yet opportunistic stance provides a template for navigating the evolving investment landscape, making the Fox Business interview a valuable reference point for portfolio managers and analysts alike.