Ramsey Goodrich and Terence Hannafin of Carter Morse & Goodrich recently returned from ACG’s DealMax Conference, one of the largest gatherings of dealmakers in the world. With more than 3,000 professionals in attendance, DealMax offered a front-row seat to the latest trends, challenges, and strategies shaping the M&A landscape in 2025.
While many entered the year with high hopes, the reality is that 2025 has been largely “on pause.” Uncertain interest rates, geopolitical concerns, and a cautious investment environment have caused a noticeable slowdown in deal activity—especially for platform transactions.
So what does this mean for business owners thinking about their “once in a lifetime” transaction?
Here are a few key takeaways:
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Smaller bolt-on acquisitions continue to move forward, especially in fragmented industries.
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Valuation discipline remains strong—buyers are being selective and strategic.
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Preparation is everything: Owners who are ready when the market rebounds will be best positioned to succeed.
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Patience and planning are critical. The deals getting done are those that were thoughtfully prepped well in advance.
At CMG, we believe uncertainty creates opportunity—for those who are prepared. If you’re even thinking about a future transaction, now is the time to get a valuation, review your financials, and build a plan.
Let’s talk about how to make 2025 work for you.