M&A Excellence Days 2026: Exchange on Uncertainty, Markets, and New Capabilities

On March 4 and 5, 2026, the M&A Excellence Days took place at Goethe University Frankfurt. The event was hosted by the German Association for M&A (BMA), in collaboration with M&A REVIEW and organized by mandaco. Its objective is to discuss key developments in the M&A market and to foster exchange among advisors, investors, corporate representatives, academia, and institutional networks.

The first day of the event began with a keynote by Dr. Hartmut Ruh, Board Member of the German Association for M&A. In his address, he focused on how to navigate uncertainty in times of economic and geopolitical transformation. Companies and advisors are increasingly required to operate under unclear conditions while still making strategic decisions and remaining capable of action.

This was followed by a panel discussion in which representatives from various organizations explored the role that networks and institutions can play in providing orientation and reducing uncertainty. Representatives from BVK, DIS (German Arbitration Institute), and UnternehmerTUM shared insights from their respective networks, demonstrating how exchange, knowledge transfer, and structured dialogue formats can support decision-making processes in a dynamic market environment.

The remainder of the first day was structured into several thematic panels. One focus was on Corporate M&A, featuring, among others, representatives from companies that had been recognized with an M&A Award. The program was complemented by a Private Equity track, developed in collaboration with the German Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVK).

Additional panels addressed topics such as Legal & Tax, markets and sectors, as well as succession and Entrepreneurship through Acquisition (ETA). As part of the legal track, the Legal Working Group of the German Association for M&A was introduced. The succession and ETA segment, organized jointly with UnternehmerTUM, explored new approaches to business acquisition and development.

The program was further enriched by the Data, Tools & Analytics track, where providers presented new solutions and applications for transaction practice. In particular, the use of artificial intelligence in the M&A process played a key role. Numerous contributions demonstrated how data-driven analyses, automated evaluations, and new software solutions can support deal sourcing, due diligence, and post-merger integration.

In parallel with the panel discussions, various providers also showcased their offerings at exhibition stands, where participants could explore new tools and services. Here, too, there was a strong focus on digital solutions and AI-based applications across different stages of the M&A process.

The second day of the event began with several masterclasses that were met with strong demand from participants. These practice-oriented formats aimed to further develop concrete skills in the M&A environment. Topics ranged from negotiation and modern sales to innovation and value creation, as well as in-depth insights into Entrepreneurship through Acquisition (ETA).

This was followed by another keynote by Martin Wiesmann, Chairman of Berlin Global Advisors. In his presentation, he examined the impact of geopolitical developments on international transaction markets and discussed how geopolitical dynamics are increasingly influencing strategic business decisions and M&A activities.

The remainder of the day continued the discussions across various thematic tracks and offered participants numerous opportunities for exchange. In addition to the expert sessions, networking played a key role, with many conversations continuing between program items and during the joint evening events.

The M&A Excellence Days 2025 were characterized by a very positive atmosphere. With spring-like weather, many participants took the opportunity to deepen connections, exchange experiences, and gain new perspectives on current developments in the M&A market.

The German Association for M&A would like to thank all partners, speakers, and participants who contributed to the success of the event. Special thanks also go to the mandaco team, which was responsible for organizing and executing the event and played a significant role in the success of the M&A Excellence Days.

The event once again demonstrated the strong interest in open exchange within the M&A community—especially at a time when economic and geopolitical uncertainties are placing new demands on companies, investors, and advisors.