Berlin: We are seeing a very strong July for M&A activity

M&A Activity & Market Outlook - M&A activity experienced a slow start in the first half of 2025, but July showed strength, suggesting a potential increase in the second half of the year [1][2] - Confidence in capital markets is growing, and the bid-ask gap has narrowed from approximately two points to about half a point, making deals more affordable and aligning buyer and seller expectations [4][5] - The industry anticipates two interest rate cuts (turns down) this year, fueling optimism in the market [7][12] Regulatory & Economic Factors - Deregulation, potentially influenced by the Trump administration, may be a tailwind for companies seeking consolidation [3] - The market is gaining confidence that interest rates will not return to levels seen three years prior, though a lower cost of capital is still desired [6] - The economic backdrop considered by EY includes expectations for inflation to remain flat or decrease and for GDP to increase slightly [12] Sector Focus - Technology is expected to remain a key sector for M&A activity for the next 5 years, driven by the race to acquire sophisticated AI technology for business modernization [8][9] - Oil and gas is experiencing a strong year and is expected to continue to see M&A activity [10] - Life sciences companies, with substantial cash reserves, are looking to build up their R&D pipelines through acquisitions [10] - There has been a surprising surge in media and entertainment deals this year [10]