DACH Trendspotter: M&A rebound hopes shift to 2024 as dealmakers eye backlogs and return of large-ticket deals

Despite economic challenges, the region’s appeal lies in its innovative mid-sized companies. The expected return of large-cap M&A in 2024 includes potential high-value deals like the sale of DB Schenker, Stada, and Datamars. Technology, industrials, and chemicals are predicted to sustain momentum, backed by improved financing conditions. In the private equity sector, 2023 witnessed fewer buyouts and exits due to financing difficulties. With substantial dry powder, larger funds anticipate entering the DACH small and midcap space, emphasizing buy-and-build strategies. Multiples are gradually declining, intensifying the pressure for investments and returns in 2024.

Murat Deniz, Partner at Eight Advisory, examines the current M&A landscape “We are observing that multiples are gradually, albeit slowly, declining.”

He added, “Given that many PE houses have been more focused on portfolio work this year, and the fact that numerous deals have been put on hold, we think a reasonable amount of these assets will come back to market during 2024.”

Read the article in Mergermarket