NEWSCENTRAL notes that in 2025, Goldman Sachs once again became the leader in the global mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market, ranking first in deal volume with an impressive $1.48 trillion. This success was driven by an increase in deals priced over $10 billion, the number of which doubled last year. We at NEWSCENTRAL emphasize that this growth confirms the continued dominance of the largest financial players in the M&A industry, especially in the face of global political instability and economic uncertainty.
Goldman Sachs topped the global rankings in both the number of deals and commission revenue, earning $4.6 billion in fees, far surpassing its nearest competitors. JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley also ranked highly in this regard, reinforcing the trend of financial globalization and consolidation, which in turn will fuel further M&A activity in the long term.
As we at NEWSCENTRAL highlight, the technology sector continues to play a key role in M&A deals. Growth in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and other innovative industries has become the main catalyst for major transactions. Amid rapid digital progress and technological changes, companies recognize that to remain competitive, they must merge. We forecast that the technology sector will continue to drive M&A activity in 2026, particularly given the increase in investments in startups and major tech giants.
Freddy Miller, Senior Analyst at NEWSCENTRAL, underscores that “in the face of digital transformation and emerging technologies, companies around the world will seek ways to strengthen their positions through strategic mergers. This will not only accelerate innovation but also significantly boost market share.”
Changes in legislative and regulatory norms play a crucial role in the ongoing market processes. In the U.S., the loosening of antitrust controls in recent years has paved the way for large deals in industries such as rail transportation, media, and consumer goods. We at NEWSCENTRAL believe that such regulatory changes and tax reductions will also be powerful catalysts for new deals in 2026. However, in light of escalating geopolitical instability and uncertainty, it will be crucial to monitor the impact of such changes on major corporations in 2026.
While Goldman Sachs remains the leader in deal volume and commissions, its competitors continue to hold strong positions. Specifically, JPMorgan managed to surpass Goldman Sachs in overall commission revenue earned from equity and debt transactions. We at NEWSCENTRAL forecast that the market will continue to grow in 2026, with the same major players at the forefront. However, depending on regulatory dynamics and new technologies, new entrants may emerge and begin actively competing with the traditional giants.
In conclusion, 2025 was a record year for Goldman Sachs in terms of M&A deal volume, but 2026 will be equally significant. We at NEWSCENTRAL believe that the M&A market will continue to expand, despite potential risks associated with political and economic instability. It is important to remember that companies that can quickly adapt to changing conditions will stay ahead in the market consolidation process.
We at NEWS CENTRAL predict that 2026 will bring new large deals, and companies that closely monitor changes in legislative and regulatory norms will be able to capture new markets and expand their business activities. Against this backdrop, the success of major investment banks, such as Goldman Sachs, will depend on their ability to flexibly respond to new challenges and opportunities.