Global M&A Activity Surges to $2.14 Trillion in First Half of 2025

Global mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity experienced a significant surge in the first half of 2025, with total deal value reaching approximately $2.14 trillion—a 26% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This growth was primarily driven by a rise in large-scale transactions, particularly in Asia, where M&A activity more than doubled to $583.9 billion, led by Japan and China. Notable deals included Toyota's $33 billion privatization of a supplier and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company's $18.7 billion acquisition of Australia's Santos. In North America, M&A activity rose by 17% to $1.04 trillion, with significant transactions such as Charter Communications' $34.5 billion acquisition of Cox Communications. Despite initial market uncertainties due to trade policies and geopolitical tensions, the increase in megadeals—transactions exceeding $10 billion—by 62% indicates a growing appetite for substantial acquisitions. This trend reflects renewed investor confidence and suggests a strong foundation for continued M&A activity in the latter half of 2025.

The surge in M&A activity is attributed to several factors:

• Regulatory Environment: U.S. banks are anticipating a surge in mergers and acquisitions, driven by a more favorable regulatory environment and hopes of reduced geopolitical tensions.
• Investor Confidence: Despite initial market uncertainties due to trade policies and geopolitical tensions, the increase in megadeals—transactions exceeding $10 billion—by 62% indicates a growing appetite for substantial acquisitions.

The current M&A activity is among the highest recorded, reflecting a significant rebound from previous years. The increase in megadeals—transactions exceeding $10 billion—by 62% indicates a growing appetite for substantial acquisitions.

The first half of 2025 has marked a significant upturn in global M&A activity, driven by large-scale transactions and a favorable economic environment. This trend underscores a renewed confidence among investors and corporations, setting a robust foundation for continued growth in the M&A landscape.