International impacts of M&A disruptors and trends

23.01.25

2025 is already shaping up to be another year of political change and speculation about the impact of that on economies globally and, for those in our industry, what the impact will be on valuations and deal flow. There were similar challenges last year and overall, the market and valuations were tempered by a combination of political and economic uncertainty. 

There are reasons to be optimistic as we look ahead. The US economy will likely drive cross-border M&A - it has outperformed the UK and Europe in recent years with assets in the latter priced attractively for US buyers. Commentary suggests that private equity and venture capital investors have been weathering the storm, holding onto portfolio companies struggling to step out of the shadow of their 2021 valuations. More of those assets will come to market as soon as conditions allow.

In the UK, despite post-Budget gloom, there are encouraging signs of stabilising inflation and interest rates, which could help rebuild confidence. Capital gains increases were less substantial than anticipated, offering some reassurance to business owners considering the timing of any exit strategy.

With a busier deal market potentially ahead, Ashfords’ corporate partner Chris Dyson spoke with financial advisor Albert Coll to explore key trends in European M&A and the critical factors that drive successful transactions – it’s an interesting read! I’m also excited to share the news of our expanding national team below. If you're looking to invest, grow, acquire, or divest in the coming year and need an experienced team onside, please get in touch.

Rory Suggett, Partner and Head of Corporate

M&A disruptors and trends - Q&A with financial advisor, Albert Coll

In this Q&A, Albert explores key disruptors, emerging trends, and the critical factors shaping the future of M&A, offering a wealth of expertise for navigating the complexities of modern transactions.

Read the full article
Upward Arrows

Recent hires

Corporate partner Sam Brown joins in London

Ashfords has appointed Sam Brown as a partner in its London corporate team, specialising in venture & growth capital fundraisings, international M&A and private equity, joint ventures and equity incentivisation work.

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Sam Brown WEB (1)

Legal Director Fergus Baker joins in Plymouth  

Ashfords has appointed Fergus Baker as a legal director to its corporate team. Fergus has extensive experience in a range of corporate matters, including domestic and cross-border mergers and acquisitions - on sell and buy side, joint ventures, management buy-outs, corporate governance and equity investments.

Find out more
Fergus Baker Web

Deal experience

The past twelve months have been busy for our corporate team, with over 150 transactions completed including M&A, private equity, venture capital, demergers and restructures.

We are proud to be recognized as one of the most active corporate legal advisors advising on UK specific matters and cross-border transactions.

Some of the publicised deals where we have advised include:

- BUKO Traffic & Safety, on the acquisition of Hooke Highways

- AlphaPet Ventures, on the acquisition of JR Pet Products Ltd, a UK premium pet treat brand.

- Private-equity backed Kynetec Group on the share acquisition of a UK-based data and research business.

- The UK's largest glass recycling companies, Recresco, on the sale of the company to multinational BA Glass group.

- The shareholders of Valeport, a Devon-based marine technology company, on its sale to subsea technology company Teledyne.

Find out more about our work in corporate law or get in touch with one of the team directly.

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