Credit Exchange with Lisa Lee The M&A market is normalising – Ares’ Matt Theodorakis
8 snips
Jun 6, 2025 
In this enlightening discussion, Matt Theodorakis, co-head of European direct lending at Ares and a seasoned expert in private credit and M&A markets, shares insights on the normalizing M&A landscape. He highlights increased investor confidence and anticipated deal-making activity. Theodorakis also explores the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on risk management in finance, asserting that leveraging AI could revolutionize decision-making within lending. He emphasizes the promising growth trajectory in European direct lending amidst a shifting economic environment.
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M&A Market Normalizing
- The M&A market is normalizing with more deals after a pause post-Liberation Day.
- Direct lending deployment in Europe has increased by nearly 50% year-on-year, showing strong recovery.
AI as a Game-Changer
- Artificial intelligence can transform risk management in private credit, enabling better forecast with machine learning.
- AI can automate routine tasks, improving productivity and allowing teams to focus on value-added work.
AI Supports Talent Growth
- AI will alleviate menial tasks, enabling employees to focus on higher-value diligence and analysis.
- Talent acquisition remains a challenge amid fast growth, making AI efficiency gains critical.