In the wake of persistently low deal activity over the past two years, the dealmaking landscape is showing signs of change. As interest rates stabilise, inflation falls, and markets become less volatile, dealmakers are presented with new opportunities and challenges.

And it looks like change is inevitable. According to PwC’s 27^th UK CEO Survey, one in five CEOs believe their companies will not be viable in the next 10 years if they stay on current paths, with organic change not sufficing. Acquisitions are increasingly viewed as the way forward, particularly when it comes to adapting technology and accelerating decarbonisation.

Here's a closer look at the trends expected for 2024:

The global freight & logistics market is forecast to grow to $18.69 billion by 2026 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4%. When looking solely at logistics, the global logistics market is expected to reach $6.55 trillion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 4.7% between 2022 and 2027.

As a business owner, you may have noticed an increase in conversations regarding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies in the workplace and B Corp status. Even though these policies are being implemented more frequently with larger companies, many small and mid-size business owners are not fully aware of what these policies are, what they mean, and how they are affecting investor behavior and M&A transactions. Let’s start by breaking down exactly what ESG is.