Latest Corporate News News
IMF Projects Steady Global Growth at 3.3% for 2026 Despite Trade Disruptions
The IMF's January 2026 World Economic Outlook update forecasts global growth holding at 3.3%, up 0.2 points from October, driven by U.S. and China resilience amid tariffs and AI investments. Projections closed end-December before recent escalations, with AI boom offsetting trade impacts in the U.S.
Concerns linger over AI firms' scaling investments relying on debt financing.
Playlist Merges with EGYM in $7.5 Billion Fitness Tech Deal
Baker Botts advised Playlist (parent of Mindbody, ClassPass, Booker) on its merger with Germany's EGYM, valuing the combined entity at $7.5 billion with $785 million new equity. Announced January 15, 2026, the deal awaits regulatory approvals.
This bolsters data-driven fitness technology globally.
Yelp Acquires AI Lead Management Platform Hatch
Yelp announced acquisition of Hatch to enhance AI-powered lead management for service businesses, leveraging Yelp's scale. The deal, announced January 21, 2026, positions both for evolving AI-driven operations.
It accelerates Yelp's strategy amid rapid AI reshaping of business.
Astria Therapeutics Stockholders Approve BioCryst Acquisition
Astria stockholders voted January 21, 2026, to approve merger with BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, expected to close January 23 pending conditions. Astria focuses on biopharmaceutical missions in immunology.
This advances BioCryst's pipeline in rare diseases.
Smithfield Foods to Acquire Nathan's Famous for $450 Million
Smithfield will buy all Nathan’s Famous shares at $102 each in a $450 million cash deal, securing perpetual rights to the iconic hot dog brand. Expected accretive with $9 million annual synergies, closing H1 2026 post-approvals including CFIUS.
Strengthens Smithfield's retail and foodservice growth.
Digital Asset Acquisition Corp. Plans Merger with Old Glory Bank for Nasdaq Listing
DAAQ to domesticate to Texas, rename OGB Financial, and merge with Old Glory Bank, targeting Nasdaq 2026 amid crypto-traditional finance integration. Requires S-4 filing, shareholder votes, and approvals.
Positions as bridge between banking and digital assets.
Superior Energy Services to Acquire Abaco Energy Technologies
Kirkland & Ellis advised Abaco, a downhole drilling tech provider, on its acquisition by Superior Energy Services, closing Q1 2026. Enhances proprietary power section technologies for drilling operations.
Bolsters Superior's global energy services.
Cantor Fitzgerald Acquires UBS O'Connor in Landmark Deal
Katten advised Cantor Fitzgerald on acquiring UBS O'Connor, a major multi-strategy trading platform. Announced January 21, 2026, it expands Cantor's financial markets presence.
Strengthens global funds capabilities.
BigBear.ai Acquires CargoSeer Assets for AI Inspection Tech
BigBear.ai announced acquisition of CargoSeer, an AI-powered inspection and trade risk management firm. Enhances BigBear's AI capabilities in logistics and compliance.
Supports expanding trade tech solutions.
SAM Companies Acquires Hyatt Survey Services
SAM acquired Florida-based Hyatt Survey Services, expanding land surveying, mapping, and hydrographic expertise. Announced January 21, 2026, bolsters SAM's national services.
Targets infrastructure and geospatial growth.
EPIC Insurance Acquires The Bond Exchange for Surety Expansion
EPIC bought California-based The Bond Exchange, adding surety underwriting scale to its national practice. Enhances specialized insurance brokerage services.
Announced January 21, 2026.
Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern Merger Deemed Incomplete by STB
The Surface Transportation Board ruled January 16 that the rail merger application lacks required info, halting progress. Impacts massive rail consolidation plans.
Regulatory scrutiny persists.