M&A Outlook Survey points to fundamentals-driven rebound and broad buyer participation in 2026

The Chartered Business Valuators Institute's M&A Outlook Survey reports broad expected buyer participation in 2026, with private companies (91%), private equity firms (85%), public companies (76%) and family offices (76%) anticipated to be active; the survey links this to available capital and a focus on prudent investment and risk management.

The Chartered Business Valuators Institute released an M&A Outlook Survey outlining expectations for 2026. The report frames a potential rebound driven by fundamentals. It notes widespread capital availability across the Canadian business community. The survey also highlights a heightened focus on prudent investment and risk management. Key findings: - No single buyer class is expected to dominate the market in 2026. - Private companies are expected to remain active buyers (91 per cent). - Private equity firms are expected to remain active buyers (85 per cent). - Public companies and family offices are each expected to remain active buyers (76 per cent). - The pattern is reported to reflect available capital and an emphasis on prudent investment and risk management. Summary: The survey presents broad-based buyer interest as a foundation for a fundamentals-driven rebound in 2026. How these expectations will translate into deal activity remains undetermined at this time.