M&A activity continues to grow across the globe, but the rate of growth is not uniform. The activity varies also by industry and geography.

Certain sectors are experiencing an explosion in M&A, including technology, energy and healthcare. Certain industries, like education and financial services have seen a slight increase.

Many companies are trying to achieve business transformation and growth that is profitable through strategic acquisitions. They are particularly interested in companies that provide digital solutions for customers to interact and manage businesses, as are companies that can help them meet environmental regulations or reduce emission. They may also be interested in purchasing manufacturing assets, such as the ones used to create EV batteries.

Global M&A activity slowed in the first half of 2024 but could pick up as financial sponsors use their capital, and activist investors continue insisting on a change in corporate behavior. The Americas was the largest M&A market, followed by Asia and Europe. In terms of the value of deals, 2024’s first nine months were dominated by deals worth $10 billion or higher than any year prior to the pandemic.

M&A is accelerated due to the speed at which technology change as companies acquire technology that enhance products or allow them to enter a new market. M&A in the manufacturing industry is increasing as companies invest in AI and discover this info here machine learning robotics, predictive robots, and smart factories to increase efficiency and productivity. Logistics providers are also influenced by the growth of ecommerce to purchase or establish distribution networks. Certain companies join forces to expand or consolidate their product lines. Others join for cost-savings or R&D synergies.