Tech M&A Trends in 2021
Among the few exceptions to the dealmaking slowdown in much of 2020 was the technology sector, where deals proliferated throughout the rocky spring and summer seasons. So far in 2021, the momentum has continued with record-setting valuations amid low interest rates and Covid-19 vaccine hopes. Now, though, top industry advisers are beginning to wonder how much runway is left.
Does the frothy tech M&A market have more room to grow? Will virtual dealmaking continue even after much of the population is vaccinated? If so, does the tech industry have a natural advantage in operating in this environment? And how will the proliferation of SPACs affect the market and change the dynamics of buyers and sellers? If the tech stock sell-off continues, meanwhile, will the number of strategic buyers diminish? Or will we continue to see strategic dealmaking as cross-border M&A surges?
Panel includes:
- Christina Pearson, Partner, Pillsbury (MODERATOR)
- Patrick Belville, Deputy General Counsel – Strategy, Ansys, Inc.
- Elizabeth de Saint-Aignan, Managing Director, Transactions, Sun Capital Partners
- Storm Duncan, Managing Director, Jefferies
- Rene Yang Stewart, Senior Managing Director, Vista Equity Partners
- Allison Leopold Tilley, Partner, Pillsbury