economy
May 8, 2026
Fewer deals, but bigger: how mergers and acquisitions moved in the first quarter of 2026
Transactions in the country reached US$5.314 million. Photo: iStock
TL;DR
- Colombia's M&A market in Q1 2026 saw 48 transactions totaling US$5.314 million, an 188.77% increase in value despite a 38.46% drop in deal volume.
- The growth in value was driven by large-scale deals, especially in telecommunications and financial services.
- M&A transactions led with 26 deals worth US$2.119 million, followed by private equity (8 deals, US$2.499 million).
- 64% of transactions remained confidential, indicating strategic importance.
- Banking and investment, specialized software, internet services, and technology were the most active sectors.
- Foreign acquisitions in Colombia totaled 30 deals worth US$2.656 million, while Colombian companies made 8 acquisitions abroad worth US$2.582 million.
- Private equity deals were entirely cross-border, totaling US$2.499 million, with significant participation from US, Swedish, and Danish funds.
- Venture capital saw a 336.55% increase in transaction value, reaching US$87 million.
- The acquisition of Tigo Colombia for US$567.6 million by Millicom was named 'deal of the quarter'.
- Future opportunities lie in digital transformation, energy transition, and strategic alliances.