M&A involving UK-listed companies is gaining momentum, with inbound deals by overseas acquisition funds and others particularly prominent. UK companies are drawing increasing attention as acquisition targets, as the AI boom has highlighted their perceived undervaluation.
M&A involving UK-listed companies is flourishing. Acquisitions by foreign companies and investment funds are particularly prominent, driving increased activity in the UK market. Another notable feature is that the companies at the center of this activity operate in traditional industries commonly referred to as the old economy.
In early August, it was reported that US logistics real estate giant Prologis would acquire UK-based SEGRO for approximately $18.8 billion (approximately ¥2.9 trillion). The deal has been cited as a symbol of the appetite for acquisitions of UK companies.