Morgan Stanley Forecasts Record $6.4 Trillion Global M&A Surge by 2026

Key Facts

1Morgan Stanley expects global M&A activity to reach a record $6.4 trillion in 2026.

Amid buoyant equity markets and a significant rebound in corporate boardroom confidence, Morgan Stanley anticipates an unprecedented surge in global dealmaking. According to the bank's latest forecast, global merger and acquisition (M&A) activity is on track to reach a record-breaking $6.4 trillion by the end of 2026. This projected growth is driven by a flurry of large-scale transactions as companies look to capitalize on favorable market dynamics and high liquidity.

This forecast aims to surpass the previous historical peak of approximately $5.9 trillion set in 2021, per Reuters historical data. Industry analysts suggest that the technology and healthcare sectors are likely to lead this momentum, mirroring sentiments from peers like Goldman Sachs, which has previously noted a strengthening pipeline in investment banking services. The projection underscores a robust belief in the global economy's capacity for major corporate consolidations despite lingering interest rate concerns.

Regarding sector performance, Morgan Stanley shares (0QYU.L) stood at $223.63 at close July 09, 2026. Investors are now looking toward upcoming economic catalysts that could influence market sentiment, including the Ivey PMI release scheduled for later today, July 07, 2026, which serves as a key gauge for the business activity that underpins large-scale corporate investments.