In 2024, Italy's M&A market continued its upward trajectory, with approximately 1,732 announced transactions, reflecting a 13% increase from 2023, and a total deal value of EUR 90.8 billion, marking a 19% rise. Inbound cross-border M&A accounted for EUR 31.3 billion, a 14% decline compared to the prior year, as activity in key industries such as Industrials & Chemicals (26%), Retail & Consumer (14%), Technology (13%), and Energy & Utilities (10%) remained steady. Meanwhile, Life Sciences and Financial Services experienced a slight dip in activity, likely due to preparations for significant transactions anticipated in 2025. Outbound cross-border M&A, driven by strategic Italian buyers, saw a sharp 45% reduction in deal value to EUR 11.8 billion, while maintaining consistent deal volumes, with notable focus on Industry & Chemicals, TMT, and Consumer sectors. Despite macroeconomic uncertainties, including complex regulatory frameworks for cross-border deals, market participants demonstrate resilience and optimism, expecting a cautious start to the year but anticipating renewed momentum in the second half, aligned with potential interest rate reductions.