Analysis
The state of the deal: M&A trends 2019
Our annual comprehensive look at M&A activity
Will M&A activity be on the rise once again this year? Our annual survey takes a closer look at deal trends and common challenges faced by corporations and private equity firms.
M&A trends 2019
Tax reform, a more relaxed US regulatory climate, and growing cash reserves fuel optimism among US dealmakers in our 2019 M&A trends report. And a recent uptick in merger and acquisition (M&A) activity shows no signs of slowing down. In this year’s survey, 79 percent of respondents expect the number of deals they close in the next 12 months to increase, up from 70 percent last year.
What else do companies predict for 2019? Deal making may look a bit different in the year ahead, with a heavier emphasis on more traditional customer base expansion and diversification of products and services rather than technology plays. An increasing number of organizations also appear to be looking to accelerate deal making to take advantage of current domestic policy.
While the M&A outlook is positive, a sizeable chunk of transactions still fall short of achieving the results initially envisioned. Corporations and private equity firms pin the most blame on external factors, but recognize the need for more effective due diligence and integration to make sure revenue projections materialize.
How else can companies ensure deal success? And what other factors could impact M&A activity in the year ahead? To find out, explore the full M&A trends report