Are M&A deal timelines finally stabilizing?

After years of delays and cautious dealmaking, 2024 data points to a possible turning point. For the first time in four years, the average time to close a deal has decreased.

Our latest report explores whether this shift signals a lasting trend or just a brief pause in an unpredictable M&A environment.

Drawing on data from Ideals Virtual Data Room (VDR) and expert insights, we analyze the key factors shaping deal timelines today — from AI-driven transactions and rising private credit to global trade tensions and rigorous due diligence.

Inside, you’ll discover:

  • How M&A timelines have changed since 2018
  • Which regions are seeing the biggest shifts
  • Why some sectors are closing deals faster
  • How tariffs and tougher due diligence are affecting deal dynamics

Expert contributors

  • Chin-Harn Leong – Partner, TMT Transaction Services at KPMG
  • David Acharya – Managing Partner at Acharya Capital Partners
  • Arlene Ortiz-Leytte – M&A and PE Partner at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer
  • Sabine Schilg – VP of Corporate Development at Ideals
  • Deven Monga – VP of Sales, North America at Ideals

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