3 Feb 2011

Acquisition activity picks up, but investors still cautious

6:22 am on 3 February 2011

Investors looking for merger and acquisition deals are remaining cautious, despite activity picking up.

Globally, merger and acquisition activity increased last year, as firms built up large cash reserves and looked for assets that fitted with their business strategy.

KPMG latest Emerging Markets International Acquisition Tracker report indicates activity should pick up this year, with firms expecting to generate earnings to rise faster.

KPMG corporate finance partner Tony McNaught says potential buyers are more discerning about what they'll purchase.