Despite increasing political tensions and evolving trade policies, the U.S. M&A market in 2018 enjoyed its second-best total deal value ever, according to Mergermarket. Activity through the first three quarters appeared poised for a new record, before slowing in the final quarter as stock market volatility spiked and questions arose about the direction of economic growth.
Prospects for 2019 remain strong, with companies eager for growth and capital still abundant and relatively cheap, despite the Federal Reserve’s recent moves away from its low interest policy. However, there are risks that could slow M&A activity. In this alert, we review some of the key trends and developments arising from last year’s M&A activity, and consider how they might affect the level of M&A and how deals are done going forward.
Read our full commentary on deal trends, which includes pertinent topics such as:
- Tax Reform
- Trade Tensions and National Security
- Private Equity Activity
- Material Adverse Effects (MAEs)
- Non-Tech Companies Acquiring Tech
- New Privacy Laws
- Shareholder Activism
- Appraisal Cases
- Rep and Warranty Insurance