Volatility in global markets is reshaping how companies pursue growth, prompting a shift towards opportunistic expansion and away from longer-term strategic dealmaking, according to the latest Dealmakers M&A survey from Pitcher Partners.

Despite geopolitical uncertainty and an evolving regulatory environment, Pitcher Partners' Dealmakers 2026 Outlook survey suggests dealmakers are increasingly preparing to act as opportunities arise, rather than actively pursuing strategic acquisitions.

The survey found 85% of respondents described the rationale behind recent Australian investments as opportunistic, while just 10% said strategic acquisitions were in their plans, down from 40% last year and 55% in 2024.

James Beaumont, Partner at Pitcher Partners Melbourne, said there was optimism that deals would continue to flow in 2026, particularly in the mid-market – deals valued between $10 million and $250 million.

Mid-market deal activity strengthened in 2025, with........

© International Business Times