Global mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity soared to $4.5 trillion in 2025, marking a 50% increase from the previous year. This surge was fueled by low financing costs and relaxed U.S. regulations, leading to 68 megadeals valued over $10 billion each. U.S. deals alone accounted for $2.3 trillion of the total. Investment banks benefited significantly, earning $135 billion in fees, while private equity dealmaking climbed 25% to $889 billion. Notable transactions included the $55 billion buyout of Electronic Arts. The market's fear and greed index indicated heightened optimism amid this robust M&A environment.