An analysis of GlobalData’s Deal Database revealed that the number of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and venture financing deals declined while private equity deals volume showcased improvement during the period.

The number of M&A deals declined by 25.8 percent, whereas venture financing deals volume registered a YoY decline of 22.2 percent. Meanwhile, private equity deals volume increased from four during January-February 2023 to six during January-February of this year.

Aurojyoti Bose, lead business fundamentals analyst, GlobalData, commented, “The dent in deal-making sentiment across sectors and geographies amid the volatile market conditions has taken a toll on deal activity in the travel and tourism sector as well. As a result, the sector saw the announcement of less than 100 deals during the first two months of 2024.”

Most of the regions and key markets also registered a decline in deals volume during January-February of the current year compared to the same period during the previous year.

For instance, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South and Central American region experienced decline in deals volume while Asia-Pacific region showcased marginal improvement.

Meanwhile, key markets such as the US, the UK and France registered decline in deals volume during January-February of this year compared to the same period during 2023, whereas India, South Korea, Australia witnessed some improvement.

Bose concluded, “Despite this downturn, areas of resilience and opportunity exist, particularly in regions like Asia-Pacific. As markets evolve, identifying pockets of growth and innovation becomes paramount for industry stakeholders.”