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Making Sense

From uncertainty to opportunity: The future of EMEA dealmaking

Feb 4, 2025
Conor Hillery, Deputy CEO and head of Investment Banking for EMEA at J.P. Morgan, shares his expertise on the evolving landscape of dealmaking in Europe. He discusses how improving economic confidence and favorable regulations are driving M&A activity despite ongoing geopolitical challenges. The conversation highlights the resurgence of private equity and the implications of US dollar strength on cross-border deals. Finally, Hillery emphasizes the need for strategic risk management while remaining optimistic about deal opportunities as we move toward 2025.
15:46

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Quick takeaways

  • Improving economic confidence and a favorable regulatory environment are driving a resurgence in EMEA deal-making activity for 2025.
  • Companies are adopting proactive strategies for navigating uncertainties, positioning themselves to seize opportunities in an evolving market landscape.

Deep dives

Recovery in Deal-Making

The increase in deal-making activity in 2024 was primarily driven by improving economic confidence following a period of significant uncertainty. Inflation rates that had previously reached double digits began to moderate, and interest rates showed signs of a downward trend. This change fostered a more favorable environment for corporate profitability, alongside a normalization of debt financing markets, which further encouraged deal activity. As businesses move into 2025, there is optimism about maintaining this upward momentum due to the expected continued availability of liquidity and a more supportive regulatory landscape.

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