Latin American M&A: scale, execution and regional connectivity
Latin America M&A activity continues to evolve within a complex global backdrop. Geopolitical realignment, sectoral transformation and shifting capital flows are reshaping corporate strategies across the region. In this environment, advisory capability is measured not only by transaction volume but by execution quality, sector expertise and cross-border M&A connectivity to global capital.
In 2025, Santander Corporate & Investment Banking (Santander CIB) advised on USD 22.4 billion in M&A transactions in Latin America, across 52 announced deals, achieving the number one position by deal volume, according to Dealogic. The ranking reflects sustained advisory activity across strategic and complex transactions in a region where cross-border considerations and sector-specific dynamics often define outcomes.
League table performance in Latin American M&A advisory is tied to the ability to originate opportunities, structure transactions effectively and guide clients through volatile market conditions. The region presents a distinctive landscape, characterized by family-owned conglomerates, state-linked enterprises, multinational corporates and private equity investors operating across jurisdictions.
Strategic M&A transactions across Latin America
M&A activity in Latin America has increasingly been driven by strategic repositioning. Companies are consolidating core operations, divesting non-core assets and pursuing acquisitions that strengthen competitive positioning in key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, financial services and digital industries.
At the same time, global investors continue to view Latin America as a strategic growth and diversification market, particularly in sectors aligned with long-term structural trends. This creates a dynamic environment in which domestic cross-border transactions coexist, requiring coordination across multiple regulatory frameworks.
Advising on such transactions demands deep local knowledge combined with access to international capital and counterparties. Execution certainty, disciplined valuation and stakeholder alignment are decisive factors, particularly in competitive auction processes and complex negotiations.
Integrated regional and global capabilities
Sustained leadership in Latin American M&A league tables underscores the value of an integrated platform. Regional presence allows for proximity to clients and understanding local business cultures, while global connectivity facilitates access to international buyers, investors and financing solutions.
In complex transactions, advisory teams must coordinate across product areas including debt, equity and structured solutions, ensuring that strategic objectives are aligned with funding feasibility. This integrated approach supports transformational acquisitions, strategic partnerships and divestitures with comprehensive financing visibility.
Executing 52 announced transactions in a single year reflects organizational scale and deep client relationships. In M&A advisory, long-term partnerships often underpin repeat mandates and early involvement in strategic decision-making.
Outlook for Latin America M&A
As Latin American corporates navigate technological transformation, energy transition and evolving consumer markets, M&A will remain a core strategic tool for growth, consolidation and capital optimization. Transactions increasingly extend beyond financial metrics, to include operational integration, governance considerations and long-term value creation.
Advisers must combine technical expertise with sector insight and cross-border coordination. In volatility markets, the ability to manage execution risk and maintain transaction momentum is critical.
Looking ahead, the Latin America’s M&A market is expected to remain active as companies seek scale, resilience and competitive advantage. Leadership in regional M&A reflects not only transaction volume but the capacity to deliver strategic advisory across cycles and jurisdictions.