Episode 32 of Mergerspresso, Addleshaw Goddard’s corporate finance podcast, explores the key themes emerging from UK Finance’s annual M&A Conference and what they reveal about the outlook for dealmaking, capital markets and investment in the UK. Host Lucy Robson is joined by guests Julie Shacklady, Director of Primary Markets and Corporate Finance at UK Finance, and Giles Distin, Partner at Addleshaw Goddard to discuss the mood among market participants and the factors shaping activity across the M&A landscape.
The discussion examines continued investor interest in UK assets, rising deal values, the role of private equity, and the importance of M&A as a driver of business growth and scale. Julie and Giles explore the growing focus on pragmatic and proportionate regulation, developments in merger control and takeover regulation, the competitiveness of London as a global financial centre, and the role of capital markets reform in supporting investment and economic growth. They also consider themes including digitalisation, tokenisation, private credit, active shareholders and the evolving relationship between public and private markets.
The episode highlights a broadly optimistic outlook for UK M&A despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty. Looking ahead, the conversation explores the potential return of IPO activity, the importance of maintaining a competitive investment environment, and the need for industry, government and regulators to continue working together to support growth. For investors, advisers and corporate leaders, the discussion provides valuable insight into the trends likely to shape deal activity and capital markets through the remainder of 2026 and beyond.
What will the City of London look like in 2036? Based on interviews with some of the City’s most influential business leaders and stakeholders, this report examines the forces shaping London’s future. Discover how growth, regulation, capital and global competitiveness could evolve in the years ahead.
Access UK Finance's UK Public and Private Capital Markets report here.
