1、ThoughtleadershipGlobalM&Ain2026Ourtop10predictions01January 20262026 is set to be a strong year for M&A.Private capital is preparing for increased activity,while strategics are seeking to reposition themselves through transformative deals.However,this optimism may be tempered by geopolitical tensio
2、ns or a tightening of credit markets.“We are expecting sustained,strong activity in the year ahead,led by strategic,high-quality transactions rather than high-volume activity.The US is leading the charge,but Europe is also poised to be a focus for cross-border transactions in 2026.The Middle East an
3、d Asia continue to be active,with both inbound and outbound deals.This global spread reflects boardrooms confidence in M&A as a tool for scaling,consolidating,and navigating an uncertain geopolitical and regulatory landscape.Smaller businesses are likely to remain prudent amid higher interest rates,
4、tariffs,and macroeconomic challenges,so most M&A activity will come from major corporate buyers and sponsors.Financing is available,with private credit playing an increasingly important role in acquisition finance.”Sarah JonesGlobal Head of Corporate“Deal dynamics continue to evolve with corporates
5、seeking transformational deals and private capital leveraging new funding structures and forging new strategic alliances.After several challenging years,dealmakers are starting to reach agreement on valuations that were previously difficult to achieve.Meanwhile,regulatory frameworks are changing rap
6、idly,with authorities increasingly open to supporting national political agendas.The stage is set for interesting and complex deal-making in 2026.”Dan BomsztykM&A Senior Associate,LondonExplore our 2026 M&A trends below.Global M&A in 202602Global M&A in 2026Our top 10 predictionsUS mega-deals domina