Latest Industry Trends News
Advisors Predict Strong M&A Outlook for 2026 Despite Headwinds
72.6% of advisors expect global M&A deal flow to increase in 2026, down slightly from prior year, with geopolitical factors topping concerns over inflation. Private equity dealmaking optimism persists at 45.3%, though trade volatility tempers expectations.
Buyers prioritize recurring revenue in targets, with 66% of bankers highlighting it as key.
Geopolitical Risks Top M&A Challenges for 2026
Advisors rank geopolitical environment as the primary impact on client operations in 2026, shifting from inflation's prior dominance. Market volatility (56.6%) and trade uncertainty (40.6%) are expected to delay deals.
Global expansion and vertical integration deals are forecasted to rise 7.8% and 5.1% YoY.
M&A Multiples Expected to Stabilize in 2026
66% of advisors foresee little to no change in transaction multiples for 2026 compared to 2025. Only 25.5% anticipate moderate rises amid improving deal activity.
Recapitalizations and capital raises expectations have declined 12% and 10.7% YoY.
U.S. Exhibition Industry Forecasts Positive Growth for 2026
92% of respondents predict year-on-year increase in U.S. exhibition activity for 2026, matching 2025 levels. Global rented space growth over 5% YoY is expected by 44% of firms.
Workforce plans show 39% global increase and 57% stability.
AI Adoption Accelerates in Global Exhibition Sector
87% of exhibition companies report using AI, with 57% generating revenues from AI-powered products. U.S. leads globally, with 7% generating revenues and 43% testing AI applications.
Industry focuses on efficiency, customer experience, and interactive formats.
Global Advertising Revenue Momentum Continues into 2026
Global ad revenue exceeded 2025 projections and is set to grow further, per WPP Media and others. Marketers face ongoing trade wars, economic tension, and AI acceleration.
Resilience shown amid 2025 obstacles.
Generative AI and Creators Shape Marketing Strategies for 2026
Key forces include generative AI, creators in brand storytelling, and emerging channels. Marketers must adapt strategies amid persistent complexities.
Industry momentum persists despite challenges.
Emerging Markets Balance Growth with Sustainability in 2026
Emerging markets integrate economic growth with ESG principles to address poverty and climate action. China excels in growth but lags environmentally; Latin America vice versa.
Philippines and Viet Nam balance both effectively.
AI and Geopolitics to Drive Global Markets in 2026
Fiscal stimulus, AI innovations, and geopolitics remain key themes influencing markets. Technological advancements expected to shape economic trajectories.
Broader innovations to impact industries worldwide.
Global Corporates Show Stable Rating Trends in January 2026
Fitch monitors key drivers of rating changes by region, sector, and rating class. Trends reflect corporate finance resilience amid global uncertainties.
Data isolates broad reasons for shifts.
Exhibition Industry Emphasizes Interactive and AI-Driven Events
Demand grows for engaging formats to enhance participant value. UFI reports steady growth in rented space and profits globally.
Sector adapts rapidly to dynamic regional environments.
Trade Policy Volatility Boosts Specific M&A Strategies
Supply chain issues drive +7.8% YoY rise in global expansion deals. Vertical integration up 5.1% amid tariff concerns.
Buyers seek financial visibility in acquisitions.