PwC Ireland has reported steady mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity in 2025, with mid-market transactions dominating despite global headwinds.

Inbound trade acquisitions from US and UK investors increased, while foreign private equity volumes declined and overall deal values eased.

AI is emerging as a strategic tool in deal-making. PwC notes that AI enhances due diligence, streamlines integration, and improves business model efficiency.

“Buyers who can fully understand and leverage the impact of AI gain a critical edge in competitive processes,” corporate finance partner Laura Gilbride said.

Financial services, accountancy practices, and software sectors remain highly active, while the energy transition market—from storage to data centres—continues to attract strong investor interest. Consolidation remains a key trend, particularly among insurance companies, wealth managers, and professional services firms.

Ireland’s open economy and strong foreign direct investment base support robust inbound activity. Corporate finance director Tom Noonan observed that Ireland’s stable, English-speaking EU gateway and pro-business ecosystem continue to engage international buyers seeking reliable EU access amid geopolitical volatility.

Due diligence has grown more complex, with cybersecurity, ESG compliance, and geopolitical risks requiring earlier and more detailed preparation. PwC notes that extending timelines and expanding assessment topics have become standard practice for many mid-market deals.

Looking ahead, PwC expects continued strategic consolidation, active private equity deployment, and sustained focus on software, financial and professional services, energy transition, and healthcare and life sciences sectors. The firm advises that preparation and strategic alignment will remain critical for successful transactions in 2026.

Explore the full story for an in-depth view of 2025 M&A trends and projections for the year ahead.

Photo credits to Laura Gilbride's LinkedIn