Global deal volume drops 9%, Europe declines 16%

Global deal volume fell 9% in early 2025 compared to the previous year, according to GlobalData. Europe experienced the largest decline at 16%, driven by economic uncertainty, while South and Central America saw a 13% drop. Despite the overall slowdown, India, Japan, and the UAE reported improved deal activity. Mergers and acquisitions dropped by about 9%, while private equity deals declined by 3%. Venture financing also fell around 9%. North America, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa had smaller declines of 4% to 8%. The US led in deal volume but saw a 3% decrease, while the UK and China faced larger declines of about 20%.