Total value of global corporate transactions to grow by 5% in 2024

By: Trademagazin Date: 2025. 03. 05. 11:04

Although the number of deals fell by 17%, the increase in large-value corporate acquisitions clearly indicates a recovery in the transaction (M&A) market, according to the PwC Global M&A Industry Trends 2025 survey.

The easing of macroeconomic volatility and the increase in the number of deals could bring a long-awaited recovery to the M&A market. Global deal values increased by 5% between 2023 and 2024, with the number of deals over $1 billion increasing by 17%, while the volume of small and medium-sized deals decreased by 18%.

Regional trends were similar to the global one, but there are differences by country. In the United States, transaction values increased by 6%; in the United Kingdom, the total transaction value increased as a result of several large deals, while in many other European countries they decreased; In Asia-Pacific, Japan and India performed exceptionally well (up 24% and 20% in total deal value). In terms of deal volume, all regions experienced a decline compared to 2023.

The number of megadeals increased significantly, by 17%, and became more diverse: in 2024, there were more than 500 deals worth more than $1 billion, but these deals accounted for only 1% of the 50,000 total M&A transactions reported. During this period, 72 deals worth more than $5 billion were completed, compared to 61 in 2023. The technology sector showed the greatest growth in 2024 with 18 large deals, while in 2023, pharmaceuticals and life sciences dominated with 10 megadeals. The insurance and media and entertainment sectors also saw a pick-up in activity in the second half of the year.

The number of small and mid-sized deals fell by 18% in 2024, partly due to valuation differences and a struggling private equity market. Currently, 46% of the 29,000 companies owned by private equity funds have been in their portfolios for more than four years, increasing pressure on investment funds to return capital to their investors.

Factors driving the growth of the M&A market

To maintain market momentum, dealmakers must also consider the increasingly volatile geopolitical environment, especially US political directions and their global implications.

“The Trump administration has taken strong actions in a few days, which is highly unsettling for market participants. Tax cuts and deregulation measures may provide positive signals, but new tariffs and an unpredictable trade environment also carry numerous risks,”

– said Csaba Polacsek, Partner, Head of Transaction Advisory at PwC Hungary.