Since late 2023, we've been hearing a lot of optimism for both the M&A and #IPO markets. Just because you wish it to be so, doesn't necessarily make it so. What is the latest update for M&A and IPO activity in May 2024?
· 2024 M&A activity has not picked up as expected – although we are seeing more deals (by $ and volume) than 2023, including greater activity from strategics (as both buyers and sellers) and for carveout deals;
· 2024 IPO activity is seeing a slight uptick (as NASDAQ and NYSE valuations across many sectors are seeing increases buoyed by strong employment numbers and consumer confidence);
· With the “higher longer” interest rate environment, #PrivateEquity still sits meaningfully on the sidelines, particularly for larger #LBOs with higher costs of capital;
· Private Equity does continue to pursue deals in the lower-middle market and middle market, particularly for add-ons with little-to-no leverage;
· Like 2023, “structure” continues to play a key role to bridge valuation gaps between buyers and sellers and to reduce leverage – with seller paper, rollover equity, preferred equity and minority investments remaining prevalent;
· We expect to see significant activity in the areas of energy transition and AI, from both strategics and Private Equity;
· PE has historically taken a keen interest in healthcare & lifesciences; however, regulators are increasingly focused on PE’s roll-up strategy in these areas which may dampen activity;
· Dual-track M&A and #IPO pre-activity is starting to pick up (signs of life?);
· When interest rates drop, expect a flood of M&A activity, especially from Private Equity (as both buyer and seller).
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Be well. Winston & Strawn LLP #MandA Michael J. Blankenship, Matt Stevens, Eric Johnson, Keerthika Melissa Subramanian
Growth advisor to ventures that command trust | Giver of Damns
2moThe big multiples usually depend on the buyer gutting the firm with big “synergies.” So the sellers get paid to basically sell their firms for parts. No one tells that story.