A surge in merger and acquisition activity has led to record-breaking fees for London’s investment bankers and lawyers, with earnings exceeding £1 billion this year. The London Stock Exchange reports a 175% spike in deal values for UK-listed companies, reaching $132.9 billion, as foreign investors drive a wave of high-value takeovers. Critics highlight the stark contrast between soaring City profits and the ongoing cost of living crisis, raising concerns over financial inequality. The rapid pace of overseas acquisitions is reshaping Britain’s corporate landscape, but the financial windfall has ignited public frustration over executive pay.
Bumper fees paid in the year’s mergers and acquisitions spark anger over high City pay during cost of living crisisLondon’s investment bankers and lawyers have made more than £1bn from a frenzy of takeover deals this year, sparking anger over high City pay during the cost of living crisis.The value of mergers and acquisitions of UK stock market listed companies has surged 175% in 2026 to $132.9bn (£100bn), according to the London Stock Exchange, as overseas buyers snap up British companies at record pace. Continue reading...
