While global dealmaking in Q1 was down from a blockbuster 2021, there are signs deal activity could pick up later in the year

Private equity dealmaking was slow to pick up the pace in Q1, yet activity remained in line with pre-pandemic levels

IPOs boomed in 2021, with both the number of new listings and the total proceeds raised breaking records. But dealmakers face a tougher road ahead.  

The dust is settling after the flurry of activity in 2021, and the IPO market is facing considerable headwinds. The following key themes could dominate equity market headlines in 2022

While IPO activity was robust throughout Europe, the Nordic region stood out

Fueled by strong stock markets and the need for yield, investors poured money into IPOs in 2021, resulting in a record-breaking year

Companies across the globe are turning to M&A to fulfill their ESG ambitions while investors seek the steep returns on offer

Sponsors spot value in companies that support others in digitally transforming their operations

Vehicle sales rebounded strongly following lockdowns, but Europe’s automotive companies confront a period of significant change as governments phase out combustion engines, supply chain constraints bite and the impacts of events in Ukraine are felt