Record High M&A Activity in July 2025 with 82 Deals and 785.9 Billion Yen in Total

July M&A Summary: Record Activity

July 2025 witnessed an unprecedented rise in M&A activity, setting a new record with 82 transactions, making it the highest for the month since tracking began in 2008. The total transaction value reached 785.9 billion yen, nearly tripling compared to the same month last year. This significant growth reflects the increasing vibrancy of the M&A landscape in Japan.

Trends in M&A Activity

Among the remarkable trends this month, the largest three transactions accounted for 80% of the total dollar value, indicating a concentrated market despite the relatively smaller size of the individual deals. In fact, only three transactions exceeded 1 billion yen in value. The activities in July primarily featured large-scale Tender Offers (TOBs)—a trend that's been prevalent recently.

As the month progressed, numerous high-profile mergers surfaced, with six out of the top ten transactions being TOBs, including three Management Buyouts (MBOs). A standout transaction was conducted by Visionar, which completely acquired a subsidiary, Thinkings, specializing in recruitment management systems, for 14 billion yen. Surprisingly, Thinkings had been operating at a loss in recent years yet was valued significantly high.

Top Three Transactions of July 2025

1. Fuji Tech (407.8 billion yen): Accepted a TOB by a Swedish investment fund, resulting in its private stock status.
2. Nihon Chuzai (117.7 billion yen): Became private following a TOB led by the investment fund Advantage Partners.
3. Taiheiyo Koiki (113.1 billion yen): Transitioned into private ownership through an MBO.

The concentration of value in these transactions illustrates unique sector dynamics. Despite the absence of many major deals exceeding 1 billion yen, the market showcased notable financial strength through these significant consolidations.

Celebrating a Decade of M&A Online

M&A Online, a platform dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of mergers and acquisitions, proudly marks its 10th anniversary in July 2025. Launched to make M&A not just accessible but also relatable, it aims to contribute to solving pressing societal issues, such as succession challenges, and facilitate innovation within the Japanese economy.

Through continuous information dissemination, M&A Online has established itself as a vital source for stakeholders, from businesses to individuals looking to engage in the evolving world of corporate mergers. To learn more, visit M&A Online.

Company Overview: Strike, Inc.

- Name: Strike, Inc.
- Location: 15th Floor, Mitsui Bussan Building, 1-2-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- CEO: Kunihiko Arai
- Established: July 1997
- Business: M&A advisory services
- Website: Strike, Inc.