Colombia moved fewer mergers and acquisitions, but the value of deals soared 189%

May 8, 2026

TL;DR

Colombia saw a 38% decrease in M&A operations in Q1, totaling 48, but deal value surged by 189% to US$5.314 million.
Fewer but larger and more strategic acquisitions characterized the market, with the purchase of Tigo Colombia being the most significant.
Banking and specialized software led M&A activity with five operations each, though this represented a 29% decrease from the previous year.
Retail and distribution showed growth with four operations (+33%), while oil, gas, and fuels had three transactions (-40%).
The US was the main foreign investor in Colombia, with nine acquisitions totaling US$3.10 million.
Colombia ranked third regionally in M&A deal value (US$5.314 million), behind Brazil and Mexico.
Transactional insurance, such as Declarations & Guarantees, is highlighted as a key tool for facilitating deal closures and managing risk.
Investors are more selective and disciplined, focusing on clarity in business theses, pricing, governance, and risk protection.

Continue reading the original article