The word «global» could bring to mind images of two dance partners dancing as one, they dancer perfectly timed to the same rhythm which is more exciting than any solo show. In the grand ballroom of global business, businesses are always searching for their perfect partner – a relationship which will increase their financial power, or provide access to new markets. Global mergers and acquisitions are an excellent way to do that, and can act as a powerful catalyst to growth beyond the borders.
Investors are becoming cautious about their purchases following an upswing in 2022 following the pandemic. The combination of worries about inflation as well as rising interest rates and the soaring volatility of the equity market have made potential buyers wary of borrowing money to finance deals.
Some industry professionals are of the opinion that M&A activity will grow in the next few months. They point to the stabilization of prices for commodities and improved economic growth prospects, which could lead companies with large cash reserves to consider selling assets in order to increase the strength of their balance sheets. Consolidation can be beneficial to several sectors such as energy and materials.
Although there is no guarantee that M&A will rise in 2024, industry professionals are generally optimistic about the prospects for deal-making, despite the US continuing to contribute a larger-than-usual share of global activity. In addition, global funding markets are predicted to be more open in 2024 than in 2023, which is expected to encourage acquirers to seek out attractive acquisition opportunities.