(05.03.2025) The number of M&A transactions remained stable in 2024, but the amounts committed increased. According to KPMG, more than 450 merger and acquisition deals were completed during the year for a total volume of almost 115 billion dollars (+43 billion / +59.7%).
The number of mergers and acquisitions (464) completed in 2024 decreased by 4% compared to 2023. The five largest transactions accounted for nearly 57% of the total volume, or 66 billion dollars. Private equity was involved in 26% of M&A, three points more than in 2023.
The industrial goods sector was particularly active in 2024 when it came to mergers and acquisitions. Nearly one in five (84) transactions was made in this branch, and the volume of these transactions amounted to 24 billion dollars, four times higher than in 2023.
The telecommunications, media, and technology (TMT) segment also stood out, with a volume of 26 billion and nearly 75 transactions. With 59 transactions and a volume of 41 billion, the pharmaceutical and life sciences sector was also among the most promising over the past year.
Nearly half of the transactions (48% / 221) involved Swiss companies acquiring companies or shares in foreign companies. In comparison, only 107 transactions (23%) involved foreign investors purchasing Swiss companies or shares thereof. In addition, 64 transactions (14%) took place exclusively between Swiss companies.
"With their strong liquidity and solid balance sheets, Swiss companies are in a very good position to conduct mergers and acquisitions and have been very active in the acquisition of foreign companies for years", comments Timo Knak, Head of Deal Advisory at KPMG Switzerland.
Last modification 05.03.2025
