Summary
In 2025, global dealmaking reached over $4 trillion for only the third time in history, primarily driven by lower interest rates and a surge in artificial intelligence technology. Although the total value of mergers and acquisitions increased significantly, the number of deals actually decreased.
Key Facts
- In 2025, global mergers and acquisitions (M&A) reached approximately $4.39 trillion.
- This is only the third time dealmaking has topped $4 trillion; the last time was in 2021.
- The total value of deals in 2025 increased by 45% compared to 2024.
- The number of deals fell by 7%, hitting a nine-year low.
- In the U.S., dealmaking in 2025 was valued at $2.23 trillion with about 11,300 deals.
- U.S. deal value rose by 54% from 2024, but the number of deals dropped by 14%.
- The increase in deal value was supported by falling interest rates and advancements in artificial intelligence.
- Some notable recent deals include SoftBank purchasing DigitalBridge for $4 billion and Stonepeak taking a majority stake in Castrol for $6 billion.
