M&A activity rising, observes Ernst & Young

03/12/2009 M&A activity rising, observes Ernst & Young

The number of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) taking place in the UK is beginning to increase due to the fact that the market is showing signs of "loosening up".

This is the view of Simon Perry, senior M&A partner at audit jobs provider Ernst & Young, who was commenting following the release of M&A data by the Office for National Statistics.

According to these figures, the amount being spent by UK firms on domestic deals rose to £1.7 billion during the third quarter of 2009 - up from £800 million in the second quarter - despite a fall in the number of transactions from 52 to 49.

Spending by UK companies on deals overseas remained unchanged at £2.4 billion and Mr Perry observed that buyers in strong positions are "pursuing assets attractive to their portfolios".

"We see some stability and an improving market," he commented, adding buyers with the means to make acquisition "have a real intent to invest".

However, he warned that a full recovery is not imminent, as some sectors are still weak and will remain vulnerable in the future.

Search for tax jobs with Integral, the experts in tax recruitment. ADNFCR-1739-ID-19493280-ADNFCR

News Home Email a friend Print Article

Related Jobs

Transfer Pricing Manager

Location: London

Salary: GBP55K - GBP75K

This busy TP group have now signed off the need for a manager to come on board and join a group that...
Transfer Pricing Director

Location: London

Salary: GBP90K - GBP150K bonus

Rare opportunity to join this leading TP Group at a senior level. This group want to speak with TP ...
Corporate Tax Manager

Location: London

Salary: GBP50K - GBP68K bonus

Brand new role, due to continued growth, to work in a small team of this leading organisation. They...