Report

Global M&A Insights: fewer deals, bigger bets amid macro pressure

Welcome to the latest edition of M&A Insights, where we explore the forces shaping dealmaking across the world and share our perspectives on what will drive activity in 2026.

Read Time
8 mins
Published Date
Jul 8 2026
From the war in Iran to persistent inflation and uncertainty over interest rates, dealmakers in 2026 have faced a series of powerful headwinds. But amid these pressures, M&A values have hit near-record highs as strategic buyers have executed a string of big-ticket acquisitions. In our latest review of global M&A activity, we explore what’s driving transactions across the world–and pinpoint a series of regulatory developments that will shape M&A markets in the months ahead.
Summary

M&A markets continue to be defined by strategic acquisitions, with corporates seeking scale and resilience in an uncertain world.

Key to this ambition is portfolio optimization, with groups seeking greater focus through carve-outs and spinoffs.

Capital is flowing into assets linked to strategic resilience, including defense, renewables, critical minerals and AI infrastructure.

Regulatory change continues to shape deal strategy across the U.S., EU and Australia, with antitrust, foreign direct investment regimes and tax reforms affecting timing and execution.

Supporting report content

Global M&A Insights: fewer deals, bigger bets amid macro pressure

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Corporate and M&A

M&A in 2026: a market defined by strategic focus, geopolitical pressures, and regulatory shifts

Article

Dive into the report

Here you will find a link to the global executive summary, which outlines the main trends across different regions. You can also follow the links to read more about the key legal and regulatory developments in each region.

Couples shaking hands standing in a row

M&A, JVs and corporate reorganizations

A more disciplined era for North American dealmaking

Article

Aerial view of a metal foot bridge, above water

Corporate and M&A

Middle Eastern dealmaking endures despite regional instability

Article

Hexagonal solar panels with wind turbines in the distance

M&A, JVs and corporate reorganizations

Asia-Pacific dealmaking remains resilient despite energy supply vulnerabilities

Article

Person walking on abstract staircase

Corporate and M&A

European M&A maintains momentum amid broader market uncertainty

Article

Stack of cubed shapes stacked in a pyramid

M&A, JVs and corporate reorganizations

How strategic buyers are reshaping UK M&A

Article

A ball moving through a maze of blocks

Tax

How reforms to global minimum tax standards could impact dealmaking

Article

Related people

This report was developed by lawyers across our global network with leadership roles in areas including M&A and capital markets. You can find out more about their expertise below.
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