Ernst and Young's April 2026 M&A activity report points to a strengthening US deal environment as private equity and corporate buyers both increase transaction volumes. EY projects US deal volumes over $100 million to grow 3% in 2026, with corporate M&A rising 3% and private equity volume up 5% compared to the prior year.
The research reflects improving conditions across several dimensions. Resilient GDP growth, easing financial conditions, and stronger CEO confidence are all contributing to higher deal activity. After years of rate-driven compression in deal volumes, the market is recovering with more sellers willing to test valuations and more buyers putting dry powder to work.
Seventy-five percent of PE dealmakers surveyed expect higher M&A volumes in 2026. However, 43% say their primary strategy for deploying capital in the current environment is maintaining pricing discipline rather than moving fast, even if that means a slower deployment pace. The result is a market where quality assets transact at strong multiples while weaker performers sit longer.
For the lower middle market, where most business broker activity is concentrated, the picture is competitive. Record PE dry powder, active family office participation, and continued post-pandemic exit activity are pushing multiples back up in healthcare services, regulated trades, and recurring-revenue businesses.
Business brokers who represent quality deals in these in-demand sectors need the digital presence to attract the buyers who are actively searching. Business broker SEO services that build authority around specific sectors and deal sizes connect the right buyer with the right opportunity.
Source: EY -- https://www.ey.com/en_us/insights/mergers-acquisitions/m-and-a-outlook