Global M&A deals fell to 47,178 in 2024—the lowest count since 2018.
After a record 2021 boom driven by cheap capital and aggressive expansion, dealmaking has slowed sharply.
Rising interest rates, tighter regulations, and increased antitrust scrutiny have made buyers more cautious.
Big Tech’s appetite has cooled too, thanks to global watchdogs blocking large mergers.
While activity is cooling, analysts say quality deals are still happening—just at a slower, more deliberate pace.
