What to Expect in the World of M&A in 2022

London corporate partner Amy Comer and associate Christina Mouktari coauthored an article for Private Equity News that outlines what to expect in 2022 in the world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A).

Comer and Mouktari discuss the recent focus on acquiring cutting-edge technologies to move forward strategically and point to the pandemic and geopolitics as reasons why companies should have reliable technology and be prepared for anything.

The authors also touch on the increased government oversight of M&A deals. They examine the concern for national security with governments taking more aggressive positions, with heightened sensitivity towards transactions in the sectors of technology, defense, pharmaceuticals and energy.

Sustainability has become a key part of corporate strategy in recent years, the authors note, and the environmental, social and governance (ESG) agenda is expected to drive deal activity in 2022. Comer and Mouktari also examine the importance of gender, ethnic and cultural diversity for many companies and its relevance at every stage of the M&A process.

In conclusion, the authors recommend that investors continue to monitor these trends throughout 2022 to better understand what is driving M&A activity and to make more strategic decisions when it comes time to invest.

The full article is available for Private Equity News subscribers.