Europe Leads in M&A

Figures recently published by Bureau van Dijk (BvD) confirm reports that Europe is now the dominant force in merger and acquisition activity.

BvD's research shows that although completed deals with a European target are nearly double those in the U.S., the U.S. still leads in overall deal value.

Looking at deals completed by the end of 2002, BvD's research, which uses data from its M&A database ZEPHYR, shows 11,149 deals with a European target compared to 6,271 U.S. deals. In terms of deal value, the U.S. leads with a total of EUR 612.6 billion compared to EUR 530.1 billion in Europe.

'In quarter 4, Europe showed a distinct increase in both deal numbers and values. Hopefully, this is the beginning of a genuine resurgence in M&A activity and pre-conditions for growth seem favourable,' said Ed Mountfield, head of research at Zephus, and the author of the synopsis.

This research forms part of the latest issue of the M&A Synopsis, which is published quarterly by BvD in conjunction with its wholly owned subsidiary Zephus. Each M&A Synopsis includes an overview of activity for the quarter, country and sector focus, deal of the quarter, rumour highlights, advisor analysis, and a venture capital/ private equity review.

For further information, visit http://zephyr.bvdep.com.

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas unless otherwise stated.

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