3. US M&A market set for major rebound

“Following ten consecutive negative quarters, North American buyers achieved significantly improved results, with momentum expected to extend into next year. Despite ongoing policy uncertainty and market volatility, robust GDP growth coupled with the Federal Reserve’s signal for additional rate cuts are easing financing conditions and driving increased strategic activity into 2026.”

4. Private equity: Rise of continuation funds

“Private equity-backed deals are projected to rise in 2026, thanks to more than $2 trillion in undeployed capital, better exit opportunities and less restrictive debt markets. Use of continuation funds will accelerate, moving from niche to mainstream, allowing PE firms to transfer one or more portfolio assets from existing, maturing funds into new vehicles. This will enable existing investors to cash out and fresh capital to buy in.”

5. AI boom brings fresh risks to dealmaking

“AI has rapidly emerged as a game changer in the fast-paced M&A world. Corporates are applying AI to accelerate and enhance dealmaking - from scouting high-potential targets and conducting deeper due diligence to streamlining integration. Innovative technologies also introduce new complexities and risks, relating to adoption, governance and reliance on human expertise, that must be carefully managed. Addressing these challenges will be key to unlocking the full potential of AI in M&A.”

Instant Insights /

M&A set for strongest year since pandemic boom

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