Insights
Statistical analysis and insight into activity and trends in M&A and capital markets.
Recent Investment Banking Insights
Opportunities for Disruption Still Exist in the Massive B2B Payments Market
M&A activity in the B2B payments sector is increasing as the market continues to digitize.
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Leveraged Finance Activity Stumbles in Q1 Amid Macroeconomic and Geopolitical Uncertainty
The broader leveraged finance market stumbled during the first quarter of 2022 as rising interest rates, inflation, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine created significant headwinds.
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Five Themes for Public Company Board Agendas in 2022
There is a lot to consider in the current M&A and corporate finance environment. Despite the volatility and uncertainty of the market, broader strategic topics remain top-of-mind for business leaders and boardrooms.
Read moreSOFR Use Rises as LIBOR Sunsets
William Blair’s Leveraged Finance group shares insight on the transition from LIBOR to SOFR, how the rates compare to each other, and where the leveraged finance market stands today.
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Key Factors Driving M&A Activity in Commercial Aerospace
Dealmaking is picking up in commercial aerospace. Private equity sponsors and strategic buyers are seeking businesses that are well positioned to benefit from the sector’s post-pandemic rebound. We discuss key valuation drivers in the current M&A environment.
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Demystifying Today’s Lending Markets
The range of lending options available to private companies has never been broader. But with greater options comes greater complexity.
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Restaurant Technology M&A Accelerates, Driven by New Levels of Industry Digitization
The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed the restaurant industry to utilize technology platforms more than ever before. We explore some of the key factors driving restaurant technology M&A today.
Read moreLeveraged Finance Market Finishes Banner Year with Another Record-Setting Quarter
Each quarter William Blair surveys a broad spectrum of lenders on conditions in the leveraged finance market for middle-market credits. The survey focuses on what lenders saw and experienced in the previous quarter as well as their expectations for future periods.
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Snack Foods in Growth Mode as Marketplace Evolves
Snacks represent one of the biggest aisles in the grocery store—as well as one of the most dynamic.
Read moreLeveraged Finance: 2021 in Review
Debt financing experienced powerful momentum in 2021 as deal volume hit an all-time high and new financing options emerged. William Blair’s Leveraged Finance Group reviews the key themes that drove debt financing markets in 2021.
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Dealmaking Amid America's Water Dilemma
The United States has a problem with water. Water supply shortages and aging infrastructure have led to a critical need for upgrades, repairs, and entirely new water systems. This has created a rich M&A environment for companies that can solve America’s most pressing water issues.
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