M&A activity surges in the South East in 2024
Overall, M&A activity in the South East experienced a resurgence in 2024, with a 24% increase in deal volume compared to 2023, totalling 290 transactions.
This marks a notable recovery, though still 11.3% below the five-year peak of 327 transactions in 2021.
The 2024 Autumn Budget appeared to accelerate deal-making in Q4, resulting in an almost 40% increase in deal volume compared to the same period the previous year, and a 44% increase quarter-on-quarter when comparing Q4 2024 to Q3 2024. The 92 deals recorded in Q4 were the highest quarterly total since Q1 2021, signalling renewed investor confidence and market momentum.
Deal volume in the South East over the last five years
Deal volume per quarter in the South East in 2024
The South East demonstrated significant performance, surpassing most UK regions with a net increase of 56 deals, representing a 24% rise compared to 2023. The North East also achieved a notable 34% growth, although from a smaller base, with an additional 14 deals year-on-year. London experienced a modest 3% increase in activity, highlighting the comparative strength of the South East. Conversely, the East of England and the West Midlands reported declines of 14% and 3%, respectively.