Big Debates: How Will M&A and IPOs Drive Markets in 2025?

This panel discussion, featuring a U.S. thematic and equity strategist, head of U.S. Brokers, Asset Managers and Exchanges Research, and a U.S. Midcap Advisors Analyst from Morgan Stanley, focuses on the resurgence of M&A and IPO activity in 2024 and its implications for retail investing in 2025. The panelists discuss key drivers behind this resurgence, including improved equity markets, low volatility, and stabilizing interest rates. They also analyze the role of financial sponsors and the impact of potential changes in antitrust regulations under the new administration. Specifically, they project a significant rebound in both ECM and M&A volumes in 2025, with M&A announcements potentially increasing by over 50% year-over-year. The panelists conclude that this rebound should positively impact retail investor engagement and market activity.