MergerMarket data shows that global deal activity in the first quarter of 2017 has so far remained resilient despite geopolitical uncertainty, with 3,554 deals worth $678.5 billion announced, representing an 8.9% increase in value compared to the first quarter of 2016 (4,326 deals, $622.9 billion).

U.S. M&A values remained strong through the first quarter, rising 19.4% to $300.2 billion with 1,116 deals, compared to $251.3 billion with 1,256 deals during the same period last year. However, political uncertainty in Europe appears to have affected activity from international dealmakers pursuing deals in the region, and Chinese deal making has decreased as a result of the Chinese government's crackdown on capital leaving its borders and heightened CFIUS scrutiny in the U.S.

Click here for MergerMarket's full analysis of 2016 M&A trends.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.