In the first half of 2019 (H1 2019), global merger and acquisition (M&A) value reached $1.86 trillion, increasing 21 percent from H2 2018 ($1.5 trillion). Although this was 8 percent less than the H1 2018 ($2 trillion in announced deals), it was the second-highest half year on record.

Likewise, while M&A volumes have slowed – declining 12 percent from H1 and H2 2019 to some of the lowest levels since 2015 – viewed within the historical context, dealmaking remains robust and it could continue to be so into the year ahead.

To analise current trends and tendencies on M&A market Baker Tilly International with Mergermarket conducted research to interview 150 dealmakers from across the globe. Some of the key findings include:

• 54% predict an increase in M&A activity in 2020
• 71% expect to increase their cross-border M&A spend in 2020 despite heightened geopolitical risks, rising protectionism and whispers of a recession
• The U.S. is the top market where dealmakers will invest in the next 1-2 years

This article was originally published by Baker Tilly International.