M&A sector strong in first six months of 2017

The first six months of 2017 have proven to be a dynamic period for Ireland’s merger and acquisitions (M&A) market, according to a mid-year report from William Fry and Mergermarket.

There were 60 deals worth a combined value of €8.2 billion in the first half of 2017, according to the mid-year William Fry Mergers & Acquisitions Review 2017, available from the law firm’s website.

There were 18 private equity transactions worth €7.5 billion, the highest half-year figure on record.

Shane O’Donnell, head of corporate and M&A at William Fry, said: “Ireland continues to be one of the strongest performers in Europe in the foreign direct investment sector despite geopolitical uncertainty instigated by Brexit and the US Presidential election.

“The first half of the year has been very active with significant mid-market activity and we have seen record highs in private equity with very healthy M&A pipeline for the rest of the year.”

Mr O’Donnell added: “The ongoing period of uncertainty between the EU and UK poses the greatest risk to dealmaking in 2017 and beyond. Volatility will inevitably cause some dealmakers to put transactions on hold until a clearer picture emerges.

“In response to this changing deal climate, it is essential that Ireland focuses on further enhancing its competitiveness to ensure it can capitalise on investment at both a domestic and international level.

“That said, Ireland’s stable currency, strong growth trajectory and status as a member of the European Union stand it in good stead.”