Merger and acquisitions (M&A) in Europe and the Middle East have seen a marked slowdown in 2022 as corporate and financial acquirers turned cautious amid rising economic anxiety. Dealmaking in the region dropped by 11% from January to October 2022, compared with the same period of 2021, according to MergerMarket data. Private equity-led activity took the biggest hit, falling by 23% in value in the period, and contributing heavily to the overall decline. While M&A activity remained resilient in the first months of 2022, it lost momentum as macroeconomic conditions deteriorated throughout the year. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the recent cooldown in deals, the key trends in the M&A market in 2022 and how they are likely to shape activity in 2023.
In our latest report you will find:
1. M&A activity in 2022
2. Quarterly stats on deal number activity
3. Comparison with 2021
4. 2023 Outlook: A new dealmaking environment?
5. Upcoming trends shaping the M&A market:
- Dry powder, Bolt-on acquisitions, Smaller deals, Carve-outs, Winners and losers, ESG and Distressed M&A
To read the full report, click here.
Download Report
Preventing Financial Blind Spots: The Role of Forensic Accountants in Early Dispute Resolution
March 16, 2026
The right dispute strategy often begins with understanding what the financial evidence can actually support. Senior Director Kelvin Cheong explores how early forensic insight can help parties preserve evidence, assess financial viability, and approach negotiations, arbitration, or litigation with greater clarity and confidence.
Annie Peabody on Quarterly Reporting and Investor Pressure in Chief Executive Feature
April 9, 2026
In a recent Chief Executive feature, Annie Peabody examines how investor scrutiny—not proposed quarterly reporting changes—is driving short term pressures and reshaping how companies communicate corporate value narratives, performance, and strategy.
THE RETURN OF SECTION 301: WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR APAC?
April 9, 2026
Section 301 is reshaping APAC trade. Explore risks from excess capacity probes and forced labor enforcement, plus tariff scenarios and mitigation steps.
Software and Tech Private Equity Outlook: Leverage AI Effectively or Get Left Behind in 2026
April 9, 2026
Selective buying will define software & tech private equity. Capital will favor AI-ready leaders who can differentiate, as buyers focus on the best positioned.