Deal volume in the first half of 2024 surpassed levels from 2022 and 2023, with a 23% increase in transactions compared to 2023, according to GF Data. Panelists noted increased pitch activity and a readiness among business owners to sell, stemming from delays since 2020. However, deal closures have been slow due to macroeconomic factors and valuation disagreements. Private equity firms are under pressure to exit investments, which may boost M&A activity. Additionally, earnouts are increasingly common but complex, requiring careful structuring. As AI becomes a crucial business driver, companies must strategically implement it for growth in 2025.