US VC deal value hits $515.8B record as exits lag—AI megadeals lead surge

US venture capital deal value reached $515.8 billion in 2026, surpassing the previous annual record by 44%, according to the latest PitchBook-NVCA Venture Monitor. The report highlights that massive artificial intelligence funding rounds drove the increase, though exits—essential for returning capital to investors—have not matched the pace.

The mismatch raises concerns about whether the current funding boom can last. While AI startups attract the largest checks, the scarcity of exits suggests a growing disconnect between valuations and actual returns. Earlier coverage showed global VC funding hitting $330.9 billion in a single quarter, with just ten deals making up $206 billion of that total—a pattern reflected in the US numbers.

The trend also reflects broader liquidity pressures. Even prominent investors, like RPS Ventures, have opted to sell partial stakes in companies such as Meesho rather than pursue full acquisitions.

The question now is whether AI’s funding dominance will continue or if other sectors will regain momentum—and whether the lack of exits will force investors to reconsider strategies built on prolonged hold periods.

Sources: siliconangle.com