While deal volume across Europe fell by 11% in H1 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, the aggregate value of transactions grew by 3.6% to €465 billion, demonstrating a focus on high-quality assets.
Rodica Manea, Corporate Partner at CMS Romania, stated: “Even amid economic and geopolitical volatility, Romania remains on investors' radar due to its growth potential in sectors such as technology, energy and infrastructure.”
The report points to several key drivers for future M&A, with non-core asset sales from large companies and distress-driven M&A being the primary sell-side motivators. On the buy-side, dealmakers are seeking undervalued targets and turnaround opportunities, alongside a push for digitalisation and supply-chain security.
Financing difficulties and valuation gaps remain major obstacles, with 34% and 30% of respondents, respectively, citing them as a concern.
In the CEE, deal value rose by 7% in the first half of 2025 to €19.1 billion, despite a 24% decline in transaction volume. The report indicates that strategic deals are a primary focus for investors in this region.
Across the markets, sectors like technology, energy, infrastructure, and defence are attracting significant strategic capital.
