March 14, 2013

Technology mergers showing strength across the globe

It is only two months into the new year and businesses across the globe are optimistic about possible growth opportunities. A survey from Ernst & Young found that half of entrepreneurs are expecting to increase their workforce in 2013, with 74 percent saying that they hired more talent last year as well.

Colleen McMorrow, Ernst & Young Partner and Entrepreneurial Services Leader, told the Financial Post that innovation was cited as the main driver for companies across numerous industries. She added that in tough markets, it is especially important for organizations to find new ways to transform their respective industries in order to stay competitive.

Ireland is one country that is seeing its mergers and acquisitions market increase in strength. The Irish Examiner cited a report from the law firm William Fry that said that even though there was a slight decline in deals made in 2012, there was an increase in their combined value.

"The M&A market in Ireland appears to be on the path to recovery and, albeit against a backdrop of continued global economic uncertainties, there is cause to be hopeful of good performance in 2013 across a variety of sectors – particularly technology, pharmaceutical, medical and biotechnology," Bryan Bourke, partner and head of corporate and M&A at William Fry, told the news source.

Additionally, the report said that 2012 was the first time there was outbound merger and acquisition news, with 41 percent of all deals last year categorized as outbound transactions.

Bourke added that the Irish government is showing more support of technology startups, which should drive M&A activity.

Entrepreneurs who are looking for a possible exit strategy should not limit their options to one country. With technology mergers becoming more popular across the globe, the right opportunity could be in an unexpected location.