AI Becomes Non-Negotiable in M&A as Dealmakers Embrace Hybrid Decision-Making
Event summary
- 62% of dealmakers say human-only decision-making is no longer defensible in complex transactions (Datasite survey, June 2026).
- 96% are using or exploring AI for sourcing and screening opportunities.
- 50% have AI regularly embedded in due diligence, delivering the highest reported ROI.
- 43% say AI is already making better deal decisions than humans in some scenarios.
The big picture
The M&A industry is undergoing a fundamental shift as AI moves from experimental to mainstream, with 71% of dealmakers believing firms ignoring AI will struggle to compete within five years. The strategic advantage now lies in combining AI's analytical power with human judgment for governance and high-stakes decision-making. This hybrid approach is redefining the value proposition of deal professionals, making negotiation skills, strategic prioritization, and relationship management more critical than ever.
What we're watching
- AI Governance
- How firms will balance AI's strategic advantages with the need for human oversight and accountability in high-stakes decisions.
- Regional Dynamics
- Whether APAC's lead in AI adoption will translate into competitive advantages over more cautious EMEA markets.
- Competitive Differentiation
- The pace at which firms integrate AI across the full deal lifecycle while maintaining trust and security in outputs.
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