
Riding the Next Wave: M&A Outlook for Business Owners & Sellers in 2026
2025 began with optimism but quickly encountered unexpected currents. Higher interest rates and lingering geopolitical and trade uncertainty created challenges, yet M&A activity found its rhythm again—particularly for companies with solid fundamentals and strategic positioning.
Now, as we look toward 2026, a new wave is forming. With significant capital still waiting to be deployed and buyer criteria becoming increasingly selective, the market is setting the stage for those who are prepared. For business owners, the opportunity lies in positioning now to ride this next wave—turning shifting conditions into a powerful push toward maximizing value and securing the right deal.
If a sale is on your horizon in the next 12–24 months, understanding the trends that shape M&A is key to preparing and positioning your business to capture peak value.
We’ve invited seasoned M&A professionals Dora Lanza and Christopher Arigan of Plethora Businesses to join LSL Partner Jeff Boxx in breaking down the key trends, insights, and opportunities business owners need to know when preparing for a potential sale in 2026.
Can’t make the live session? Register anyway, and we’ll send you the recording!

