EY Points to a 'Robust' M&A Environment in 2019

The video discusses M&A trends in financial services, highlighting significant growth in 2018 and strong fundamentals despite market volatility. It covers factors affecting valuations, such as interest rates and tax reforms, and the importance of scale. The consolidation trend in regional banks and regulatory impacts are examined. The insurance sector's M&A activity, driven by technological advancements and private equity interest, is also explored. Finally, the video addresses market volatility's impact on M&A and CEO sentiment, emphasizing the strategic importance of M&A for growth.

What was the percentage increase in the value of M&A deals in the financial services sector from 2017 to 2018?

• 55%

• 25%

• 10%

• 8%

Which factor is NOT mentioned as influencing valuations in the financial services sector?

• Need for scale

• Technological advancements

• Tax reforms

• Interest rates

In which range do most M&A activities occur in the financial services sector?

• Over $10 billion

• $1 to $5 million

• $1 to $5 billion

• $5 to $10 billion

What is a significant trend in the insurance sector's M&A activity?

• Reduction in closed block life insurance deals

• Decline in private equity interest

• Integration of Insurtech

• Focus on mega deals

How do CEOs view M&A in light of uncertainties like trade and Brexit?

• They are reducing investments in technology

• They are completely avoiding M&A

• They are focusing only on short-term gains

• They see it as a strategic tool for growth