{{item.title}}
{{item.text}}
{{item.title}}
{{item.text}}
In 2024, M&A activity is expected to pick up remarkably. Following a significant downturn, one of the most severe in the past decade, there are now signs of an emerging upswing. While the pace and strength of this recovery is still subject to macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties, early indicators point to a gradual increase in dealmaking as the year progresses. Indeed, an outbreak of M&A activities in recent months suggests that this rebound in dealmaking may have already begun in some sectors.
However, this year’s M&A landscape differs from previous periods. The surge in activity seen in late 2020 and 2021 is unlikely to be repeated. Instead, the market is adjusting to new conditions: tighter credit markets are leading to more expensive financing – funding is more costly than it has been in a decade – with respective impact on valuations and deal structures. In 2024, dealmakers will be challenged to adapt to these changing dynamics; to generate the same return as before, they will need to create more value. Those adept at risk assessment and scenario planning are likely to be more successful in this evolving environment. Overall, the M&A sector is set for steady growth in 2024.
“In 2024, the key to successful dealmaking lies in strategic foresight and embracing megatrends such as AI, climate change, and demographic shifts. It’s about using transactions not just for growth, but as decisive steps in a company’s transformational journey.”
Marc SchmidliPartner, Deals Leader, PwC SwitzerlandOur optimism is based on three key factors:
Speed up your dealmaking: With high competition for quality assets due to pent-up demand, speed and preparedness in dealmaking will be critical. The emerging use of AI to streamline transactions and decision-making processes will further accelerate this dynamic – and dealmakers should get the buy-in of key stakeholders well in advance.
Reinvent your business model: In response to global megatrends such as technology and climate change, business leaders must adapt quickly, find new sources of value, and manage risk. CEOs who embrace a holistic strategy that includes operations, sustainability, and compliance will be better equipped to drive sustainable growth and strategic progress.
Secure the right talent: Generative AI will be deployed on a larger scale as companies seek to leverage technology and transform. Acquiring the right talent becomes crucial for value creation. Dealmakers must assess the required capabilities and ensure that strategies are in place to retain key talent post-deal.
Be bolder: Despite many reasons for hesitation, such as macroeconomic uncertainties and rising capital costs, the next wave of M&A is imminent. Companies should carefully weigh the pros and cons, but not let the challenges get in the way of action. Staying ahead in a rapidly changing market means acting now. Follow this link, uf you want to learn more about the M&A activity in Switzerland in 2024.
Visit our blog post for further insights into the development of dealmaking and our predictions for its future direction. Gain an in-depth understanding of the special dynamics of the M&A landscape in 2024 with our blog series. Explore our detailed analysis and predictions on dealmaking trends and strategies across sectors and get the knowledge you need to navigate this transformative year.
“Don’t let this M&A upturn take you by surprise. It’s coming, and when it does, it won’t be like the ones we have seen in the past. Deal returns will be under greater pressure, and the companies that will ultimately come out on top are those that can demonstrate strategic value, are well prepared and can move fast.”
Learn more about the key trends driving M&A activity globally in 2024. For potential investment hotspots check out our global industry-specific takeaways below.
And how about the situation in Switzerland? In the next few weeks, our industry experts will be sharing their views and expectations of M&A trends in Switzerland ‒ so please stay tuned.