Total global merger and acquisition (M&A) activity rose to $109 billion in the first half of the year, a rise of 60 per cent on the year.
Latest figures show that UK firms spent $42 billion (£32bn) on other UK firms, more than double the outlay in the same period of 2016, while cross-border deals totalled $67bn.
“The UK’s involvement in global M&A points to companies continuing to look abroad for deals and being attractive for inbound acquirers,” says a spokesperson for the report.
“The outlook for the UK economy and UK’s trading relationships may be uncertain, but many UK companies possess qualities, such as a focus on innovation and global presence, that will continue to make them attractive.”
The report predicts private equity firms will be major drivers of the M&A market in the coming year.
At Beavis Morgan, we have also acted on a significant number of M&A deals for SME and owner-managed businesses and are able to assist in both the buying and selling of businesses.
For further information about how we can help you achieve your business ambitions, contact Paul Ashton or your usual Beavis Morgan Partner.