Austria’s M&A deals rise 11% in first half of 2026

The EY advisory report shows that the number of mergers and acquisitions involving Austrian companies increased by 11 % in the first half of 2026, reaching 131 transactions. Published deal volume fell sharply to €5.6 billion from €17.3 billion a year earlier, a drop EY attributes to unusually large deals in the prior period rather than a market collapse.

Foreign investors announced 55 take‑overs of Austrian firms, a 14.6 % rise, contributing about €3.2 billion in foreign direct investment. EY partner Robert Hufnagel said Austria remains attractive for buyers with strong technological know‑how and market positions. Austrian companies also stepped up outbound activity, reporting 52 overseas transactions worth roughly €1.6 billion.

The report highlights several high‑profile deals, including BAWAG’s €1.6 billion acquisition of Ireland’s PTSB, Ennoconn Corporation’s mandatory offer for Kontron, and the ongoing competition for Addiko Bank. Larger historic transactions such as the OMV‑Borouge merger and Erste Group’s purchase of Santander Bank Polska in Poland set the backdrop for continued activity in 2026.