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Global M&A Trends Report

New Zealand

(Asia Pacific) Firm Simpson Grierson

Contributors James Hawes

Updated 30 Jan 2024
With respect to private M&A, what are three things on top of mind for M&A practitioners in your jurisdiction?

Three things top of mind for private M&A practitioners in New Zealand are: 

  • General: economic environment
  • Commercial: valuation expectation gaps
  • Regulatory: national security and foreign investment restrictions

Having just held an election in New Zealand, the market is waiting to see how the new coalition government develops its policies and whether it is able to have an impact on current economic headwinds

With respect to private M&A, where does your jurisdiction see most deal activity?

Most private M&A deal activity is categorized as mid-market. 

With respect to private M&A, what sector sees the most deal activity in your jurisdiction?

Most private M&A deal activity is seen in the Technology, Media and Telecommunications sector. 

What are your predictions for private M&A deal volume in your jurisdiction during 2024?

Private M&A deal volume in 2024 is predicted to be greater than 2023 deal activity, hopefully, 2024 will see the new Government's policies beginning to have an impact on investment appetite and investors getting comfortable with the current market conditions.

With respect to public M&A, what are three things on top of mind for M&A practitioners in your jurisdiction?

The stock market is subdued and we are seeing more activity in this area as opportunities arise.

With respect to public M&A, where does your jurisdiction see most deal activity?

Given the very thin New Zealand market in listed equities, it is very difficult to speak of there being different tiers in the public space.

With respect to public M&A, what sector sees the most deal activity in your jurisdiction?

As noted above, given the thin public market, it is difficult to discern sector preferences in the public space.

What are your predictions for public M&A deal volume in your jurisdiction during 2024?

Public M&A deal volume in 2024 is predicted to be greater than 2023 deal activity, as noted above, given the current market conditions, more opportunities are likely to arise. 

Please share any other insights with respect to M&A in your jurisdiction:

We look forward to 2024 ushering in a period of stability driving M&A in both private and public spheres.

Global M&A Trends Report

New Zealand

(Asia Pacific) Firm Simpson Grierson

Contributors James Hawes

Updated 30 Jan 2024