M&A TODAY
ABE & PARTNERS
Setting the Standard in Life Science and Healthcare Law
Inside This Issue
Meet Takanori Abe, Managing Partner of Abe & Partners, navigating complex legal challenges.
EDITOR'S NOTE
WELCOME TO M&A TODAY - 2025
Welcome to the M&A Today - Annual Awards - 2025, where we celebrate the industry leaders who have set new standards in the dynamic world of business. We take immense pride in recognizing the exceptional firms and individuals from over 163 countries, highlighting those who have revolutionized their sector through their innovative and strategic achievements.
M&A Today's selection process is meticulously crafted, incorporating self-submissions and third-party nominations. This culminates in a comprehensive evaluation by an independent panel of judges, ensuring that only the most deserving receive our accolade.
Each winner is assessed on a broad spectrum of criteria, reflecting the depth, complexity, and significance of their transactions
Receiving an M&A Today award is a testament to the strategic vision and operational excellence of the winners It underscores your firm's commitment to setting benchmarks in the M&A industry
This recognition not only boosts your firm's prestige but also enhances its credibility, opening doors to new opportunities and partnerships
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all recipients of the M&A Today - Annual Awards2024 Your dedication to excellence and innovation in mergers and acquisitions sets you apart as leaders in your field
With warm regards,
Richard Baker Editor-in-Chief
Richard Baker
The Big Five: How 2025’s Boldest M&A Deals Are Rewriting Global Business
This year, deal-making didn’t just bounce back it roared into a new era
After a sluggish 2023 and a hesitant 2024, the global M&A landscape in 2025 hit the accelerator Despite geopolitical uncertainty, rising regulatory scrutiny, and volatile capital markets, total deal value surged to $26 trillion by August up nearly 30% year-over-year
But behind the numbers, something even more interesting is happening: big bets, bold plays, and business model pivots are driving the narrative
Let’s break down the Top 5 M&A deals of 2025, not just in terms of value, but in terms of impact Each one reveals the playbooks of modern business leaders who are no longer content to adapt they’re intent on rewriting the rules
1. Union Pacific’s $85B Takeover of Norfolk Southern
The Mega Rail Merger Redrawing America’s Infrastructure Map
This one is historic. At $85 billion, Union Pacific’s acquisition of Norfolk Southern isn’t just the year’s largest it’s among the biggest transport deals ever.
Why it matters: This is vertical consolidation at scale By merging two giants of American rail, Union Pacific is doubling down on the future of freight resilience, energy efficiency, and supply chain control Amid the post-COVID logistics reckoning, owning your lanes literally is back in vogue
Regulators gave the deal a hard look, but the combined operational footprint, network efficiency, and emissions reduction strategy won out The message: legacy infrastructure is no longer “boring” if you play it right
2.Synopsys Acquires Ansys for $35B
Silicon Meets Simulation in a Deep Tech Power Grab
Completed in July, Synopsys’ all-stock purchase of Ansys for $35 billion is the biggest software-engineering crossover of the decade.
Why it matters: AI is eating the world but it’s the companies building the systems that enable AI that are quietly becoming the new titans. Synopsys designs the brains (chips), Ansys simulates the bodies (mechanical/electrical systems) Together, they’re chasing dominance in model-based system design, a space increasingly vital for autonomous systems, aerospace, and nextgen mobility
This deal isn’t just about scale it’s about owning the high ground in the digital twin economy
3. Google Buys Wiz for $32B
A Cybersecurity Arms Race Hits Silicon Valley
In a rare move, Google dropped $32 billion in cash to buy Wiz a 4-year-old Israeli cloud security firm.
Why it matters: First, the number. $32B is eye-popping for a startup. But this is less about valuation and more about urgency Google Cloud has long trailed AWS and Azure With this deal, it secures what analysts call “the most loved security product in the cloud”
Security is no longer a feature it’s the platform Wiz gives Google a narrative edge and a technology moat in a world where trust is the new currency
4. Omnicom Merges with Interpublic for €13.25B (~$14.3B)
The Ad Giants Consolidate in the Age of AI
After months of regulatory review, UK authorities finally cleared the Omnicom–Interpublic Group merger, creating a global advertising juggernaut
Why it matters: Two of the world’s top five agency networks just became one. While legacy media buying shrinks, AI-driven creative, performance marketing, and predictive analytics are booming. This merger unites deep creative talent with enterprise tech chops, creating a modern marketing behemoth poised to challenge both Accenture and Google
It’s not about Mad Men anymore It’s about machine-augmented persuasion at scale
5. Palo Alto Networks Buys CyberArk for $25B
Identity Security Becomes the Next Battlefield
In July, Palo Alto Networks announced its acquisition of CyberArk, a long-standing leader in identity and access management
Why it matters: This is the next evolution of cybersecurity. As generative AI and decentralized systems expand attack surfaces, identity becomes the control point. This deal signals Palo Alto’s intention to dominate not just firewalls and endpoints but the entire user-access stack.
Call it “zero trust meets total control” A bold, strategic alignment that anticipates where the next trillion-dollar threat will emerge
What These Deals Signal for the Future of M&A
Across all five megadeals, a few consistent themes emerge:
1. AI and Infrastructure Are King
Forget DTC, consumer apps, or social media 2025’s power plays are in critical systems, not consumer convenience The next battlegrounds? Supply chains, simulation platforms, security stacks, and compute power
2. Cash is Still King—for the Right Bets
Despite tight capital markets, strategic acquirers with healthy balance sheets are deploying billions. Google’s all-cash Wiz buy shows that if the asset is transformative, price isn’t the problem relevance is.
3. The Middle is Getting Squeezed
Legacy players in advertising, transport, or software aren’t waiting to be disrupted they’re consolidating power fast Expect more of this, especially as AI accelerates performance gaps between winners and laggards
4. Regulators Are Involved But Not Always In the Way
Interestingly, all five deals cleared regulatory hurdles relatively quickly Even in sensitive sectors like transport and ad tech, if deals promise innovation, jobs, or ESG wins, they get through
The New M&A Playbook
This year’s top deals aren’t about shortterm synergies or headcount cuts. They’re about moats, models, and momentum.
Each deal shows a company trying to do one of three things:
Own a platform (Synopsys + Ansys)
Buy speed (Google + Wiz)
Eliminate duplication (Omnicom + IPG)
Consolidate market control (Union Pacific + Norfolk Southern)
Fortify the future (Palo Alto + CyberArk)
These aren’t reactive moves. They’re aggressive statements about where the future is going and who intends to control it
Final Word
M&A used to be about efficiencies. Now, it’s about survival at scale.
In an AI-fueled economy with rising geopolitical fault lines and consumer trust eroding, the best strategy is to get bigger, get smarter, or get bought.
The winners of 2025 didn’t wait to be disrupted They made the first move
And that might be the biggest lesson of all.
Setting the Standard in Life Science and Healthcare Law
M&A Today - Global Awards – 2025 Life Science And Healthcare Law Firm Of The Year In Japan
Innovative Legal Strategies, Global Expertise, Unmatched Precision these principles define the ethos of ABE & PARTNERS, the recipient of the M&A Today - Global Awards – 2025 in the Life Science And Healthcare Law Firm Of The Year In Japan category Operating from its Osaka headquarters under the guidance of Managing Partner Takanori Abe, the firm has set a new benchmark for legal excellence, notably within the complex world of life sciences and healthcare
ABE & PARTNERS is distinguished by its unique combination of scientific knowledge and legal expertise This rare blend empowers the firm to not only understand the intricate technological nuances behind pharmaceutical and biotechnology breakthroughs, but also to craft bespoke legal strategies for large, multinational clients navigating the Japanese and global markets In 2024, ABE & PARTNERS experienced a bountiful year with four successful decisions and zero losses Notably, they achieved victories representing various pharmaceutical giants
ABE & PARTNERS notably secured a triumph for a Japanese pharmaceutical company by invalidating all claims of an Indian pharmaceutical company’s patent linked to the Zika virus vaccine Additionally, they represented a US pharmaceutical company, overturning the JPO’s cancellation notice and maintaining the patent's claims unaltered Furthermore, in a significant legal battle representing Bayer Healthcare and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, against Samsung Bioepis ABE & PARTNERS effectively quashed Samsung Bioepis' unfair competition claim The Regeneron case was concluded with a dismissal decision by the IP High Court in 2025 These cases form part of a broader global litigation landscape between Regeneron/Bayer and biosimilar companies concerning Eylea, a prominent biopharmaceutical medicinal drug
One of the firm’s most celebrated achievements was its provision of critical IP due diligence services to Shireduring the monumental Takeda Pharmaceutical’s $62 billion acquisition of Shire, the largest pharmaceutical M&A in Japanese history This case underscores ABE & PARTNERS’ strength in managing high-stakes, cross-border M&A transactions and facilitating successful integration of valuable intellectual property portfolios. Their meticulous approach ensured Shire’s IP assets were protected and strategically aligned post-acquisition, highlighting the firm’s role as a core architect of such transformative deals
Apex Facades Group:
Elevating Excellence in High-Rise Construction
Best Rope Access & High-Rise Construction Company 2025, Australia
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BEST HELICOPTER TOUR
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To learn more about our helicopter tours and to plan your own unforgettable adventure, visit our FunFlights website We are your goto provider for unique helicopter experiences from the Swiss Capital City Airport let us show you Switzerland from a whole new angle!
Partnering with a highly experienced local helicopter operator, FunFlights GmbH ensures that every adventure is conducted with the highest standards of safety and professionalism All necessary permits and insurance are in place to give our guests complete peace of mind while they take in the breathtaking scenery Our standard offerings include five exclusive private helicopter tours, but we’re always ready to tailor a unique route for you Whether it's a glacier landing, a visit to a remote mountain hut restaurant, or an elegant lunch at a toprated establishment, our tours cater to all tastes and desires.
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Goldie Uttamchandani
Author & Professional Certified Coach (PCC)
Best Life & Teen Coach 2025 - Spain
These accolades reflect GLC’s consistent performance and its esteemed position in the legal community.
Client-Centric Philosophy
GLC’s philosophy, encapsulated by the motto “Our Firm Succeeds By Helping Our Clients Succeed,” highlights their dedication to client success The firm’s approach involves understanding each client’s unique challenges and crafting strategies that align with their objectives This commitment has fostered long-standing relationships and a reputation for reliability
Strategic Collaborations
GLC’s collaborations with international law firms have expanded its global reach, allowing clients to benefit from a blend of local expertise and international perspectives These partnerships have been instrumental in navigating cross-border legal complexities, ensuring clients receive comprehensive support
Community Engagement and Development
Beyond legal services, GLC actively participates in community development The firm has been involved in training programs, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and events that contribute to the growth of Qatar’s legal and business communities Their engagement underscores a commitment to societal advancement alongside professional excellence
Looking Ahead
The “Best Law Firm of the Year - Qatar” award by M&A Today in 2025 reinforces GLC’s position as a leader in the legal sector With a foundation built on expertise, client trust, and a forward-thinking approach, Gulf Legal Consultants is poised to continue its trajectory of excellence, contributing significantly to Qatar’s legal landscape and beyond
For more information about Gulf Legal Consultants and their services, visit their official website at Gulf Legal Consultants (GLC), a distinguished law firm in Qatar, has been honored with the prestigious “Best Law Firm of the Year - Qatar” award by M&A Today for 2025 This accolade underscores GLC’s unwavering commitment to legal excellence and its pivotal role in shaping Qatar’s legal framework.
A Legacy of Excellence
Established with a vision to provide unparalleled legal services, GLC has consistently demonstrated expertise across various legal domains The firm’s reputation for handling intricate legal matters has positioned it as a trusted advisor to both local and international clients Their collaboration with global law firms further amplifies their capability to navigate complex legal challenges
Comprehensive Legal Services
GLC’s extensive range of services caters to diverse sectors, ensuring clients receive tailored legal solutions Key practice areas include:
Litigation: Representing clients in civil, criminal, and commercial disputes with a strategic approach
Corporate Law: Advising on mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance
Arbitration: Facilitating alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to achieve efficient outcomes
Real Estate Development: Providing legal guidance on property transactions, zoning laws, and construction contracts
Intellectual Property: Protecting clients’ innovations through meticulous IP rights management
M&A
Royalty Reigns Management®
SDO Moçambique
Sets New Benchmark for Strategic Management in Mozambique
SICGENANTIBODIES
BEST ANTIBODY DEVELOPMENT & PRODUCTION COMPANY - PORTUGAL
SICGEN Antibodies, established in 2008 as an extension of the University of Coimbra, stands as a pioneer in the production, development, and marketing of polyclonal antibodies crucial for cell biology research Founded by Portuguese scientist José Ramalho, who is also associated with NOVA University of Lisbon, the company operates from a quaint village in Coimbra district Its facilities encompass a laboratory and animal house, responsible for the annual production of numerous goat antibodies
At the core of SICGEN Antibodies' mission is the crafting and distribution of groundbreaking antibodies, renowned for their application in diverse life sciences research fields. Its antibodies, particularly those targeting fluorescent proteins such as GFP, mCherry, and tdTomato, are frequently cited in prestigious journals including Nature, Cell, and Science
With a catalog of over 300 products by 2023, SICGEN's antibodies are integral to research methodologies like Western Blotting, Immunofluorescence, and Immunocytochemistry, while also being adaptable to ELISA and immunoprecipitation techniques
Committed to continuous enhancement and innovation, SICGEN dedicates its efforts to expanding its range of antibody-related offerings, serving an international clientele spanning universities, research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech distributors, with a particular focus on markets in North America, Europe, and the Far East.
SICGEN's trajectory of success is anchored in its ability to address unmet needs within the niche of high-quality antibodies Leveraging its academic roots and the foresight of its scientist founders, the company has effectively capitalized on the growing demand for specific antibodies It continues to stay ahead of scientific developments, investing in state-of-the-art technology to augment antibody production quality and efficiency
José Ramalho envisions SICGEN leading the polyclonal antibody industry globally through relentless innovation, superior service, and competitive pricing He recognizes the indispensable role of research and development in the antibody field, which provides essential tools for studying complex biological processes and molecules
You Are Capital Named Corporate Finance Advisory Firm of the Year – Spain 2025 by M&A Today Global Awards
In a year marked by complex cross-border transactions and fast-evolving capital markets, You Are Capital has emerged as a standout force earning the prestigious title of Corporate Finance Advisory Firm of the Year in Spain 2025 from the M&A Today – Global Awards.
Headquartered in Madrid, with strategic offices across Europe including Barcelona, Paris, Milan, Lisbon, Düsseldorf, and Istanbul You Are Capital is a trusted advisor in high-stakes corporate finance Their core offerings span M&A, private equity advisory, fundraising, structured debt, pre-IPO and pre-P2P guidance, and private placements. But what sets them apart isn’t just the services it’s the calibre of execution
Led by Managing Partner Jean-François Alandry, a veteran with over 35 years’ experience and hundreds of closed deals under his belt, the firm is built on deep expertise, cross-border reach, and a fierce commitment to client success. Alandry, who also founded Eurohold, brings unrivalled insight from sectors like technology, life sciences, environment and renewables, and B2B services Fluent in French, Spanish, and English, he reflects the firm’s international DNA and tailored approach
What truly differentiates You Are Capital is its ability to connect strategic intent with real-world dealmaking fast, discreet, and precise With a network of over 20 global partners and a multisectoral team, the firm is able to consistently source and execute proprietary, off-market transactions Their recent advisory to European Digital Group (EDG) on its majority acquisition of Garaje de Ideas a UX and digital product studio shows the firm’s growing footprint in high-growth sectors and PE-backed roll-ups
You Are Capital’s clients range from multinational corporations and family offices to institutional investors, private equity firms, and growth-stage entrepreneurs For each client, they deliver tailored advisory rooted in market intelligence, long-term relationships, and international foresight. This award cements their position as a go-to advisory partner for complex, high-value transactions across Europe and beyond
To learn more, visit wwwyouarecapitalcom or follow their updates on LinkedIn
