AI and Megadeals Lift Global M&A Value to $1.2 Trillion
Global dealmaking value rose 26% to $1.2 trillion in the first quarter despite geopolitical tensions. Record megadeals in AI and tech led the surge in activity.
Global mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity saw a significant resurgence in the first quarter of 2026, with transaction values climbing past $1.2 trillion. According to data provided by the LONDON STOCK EXCHANGE GROUP, the total value of deals rose by 26% compared to the same period last year, even as the overall volume of transactions decreased by 17%. This shift highlights a trend toward larger, more impactful megadeals that are reshaping the corporate landscape.
A primary driver of this activity has been the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, which has created clear winners and losers in the technology sector. Four of the six largest transactions during the quarter involved companies at the forefront of the AI race. This includes a $110 billion funding round for OpenAI and a $30 billion fundraise for Anthropic, reflecting a growing preference for strategic equity stake purchases over traditional full acquisitions.
