India Experiences Unprecedented Deal Activity with $116 Billion in 2024

Key Takeaways

Record 2,186 deals valued at $116 billion in 2024.
33% increase in deal volume and 76% in value year-over-year.
683 M&A deals worth $44.1 billion.
1,298 private equity deals raised $31 billion.
86 IPOs raised $21 billion, tripling from 2023.

New Delhi, Jan 21 (NationPress) The deal-making environment in India achieved a remarkable milestone in 2024, showcasing an astonishing 2,186 transactions worth $116 billion. This represents a 33 percent increase in volume and a 76 percent surge in value compared to the previous year, as detailed in a report released on Tuesday.

Fueled by India’s recognition as the fastest-expanding G20 economy, boasting a 7 percent growth rate primarily driven by strong domestic demand, the deal activity soared, overcoming global economic challenges and exemplifying the strength of its economy, according to the Grant Thornton Bharat ‘Annual Dealtracker 2024’.

“Looking ahead to 2025, we remain hopeful about the ongoing vibrant deal activity, propelled by governmental reforms, a stable economic environment, and a flourishing tech ecosystem. This makes India a compelling destination for investors amidst global uncertainties,” stated Shanthi Vijetha, Partner, Growth at Grant Thornton Bharat.

The mergers and acquisitions sector experienced a record-breaking year, with 683 transactions valued at $44.1 billion, reflecting a 37 percent increase in volume and a 75 percent surge in value year-over-year.

Domestic consolidation was a significant contributor to this growth, featuring 479 deals worth $23.5 billion, marking a 64 percent increase in value, led by prominent Indian conglomerates such as Adani Group, Aditya Birla Group, and Nazara Technologies.

Outbound mergers and acquisitions also displayed noteworthy growth, with 121 transactions totaling $16.9 billion, bolstered by two billion-dollar deals, according to the report.

The private equity arena showed resilience in 2024, with 1,298 deals generating $31 billion, compared to 1,046 deals worth $27.4 billion in 2023.

The year also saw a 26 percent increase in high-value deals (valued at and above $100 million) and included two billion-dollar transactions.

Initial public offerings (IPOs) reached extraordinary levels in 2024, overcoming global economic headwinds with 86 listings raising a staggering $21 billion, more than tripling the $6.2 billion raised in 2023, as reported.