From 2018 to 2023, the Asia-Pacific M&A landscape witnessed key trends. In 2023, major countries like Australia, China, and India saw a slowdown in M&A values, sparking uncertainty. 

The Financial sector surged in 2022, while Real Estate declined in 2022-2023 due to challenges in Chinese real estate. Information Technology consistently excelled, but the Industrials sector dipped in 2023. Telecommunication Services underwent consolidation amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Deal size trends varied, with mega-deals in finance, tech, and industry, mid-sized deals forming the M&A backbone, and small deals prominent in the tech sector. Domestic deals dominated large countries like China, India, and Japan, contrasting with more cross-border deals in the ASEAN region.

Financing trends showcased cash in larger deals, debt financing in real estate and infrastructure, equity financing in tech and financial services, and hybrid financing to navigate uncertainty. Strategic acquisitions were common, with a focus on new technologies, geographic expansion, or diversification. Private equity firms remained active in disrupted sectors.

Sector dynamics emphasized intra-sector consolidation for market share and efficiency, cross-sectoral integration for strategic vertical alignment, and a shift towards technology and infrastructure acquisitions for diversified capabilities.

In summary, the Asia-Pacific M&A scene (2018-2023) reveals a dynamic landscape, balancing challenges and opportunities with a strategic focus on consolidation and technology-driven integration.