ESG continues to rise in importance for M&A dealmakers

Recent survey

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues have been finding their place within the dealmaking landscape in recent years, as investors increasingly acknowledge the role such factors play in influencing M&A decision-making.

Record valuations and levels of dealflow in 2021 were built on strong liquidity, demand and opportunity following what was a very brief hiatus when the Covid-19 pandemic first hit. With so much appetite and scope to put money to work within an energised dealmaking environment, due diligence in unearthing the best opportunities has never been more important. As part of this due diligence, ESG considerations cannot be ignored - indeed, just 8% of respondents to Trowers & Hamlins' recent survey looking at the trends driving deal activity in the mid-market and beyond reported that ESG factor...