Merger and acquisition (M&A) transactions are increasing – in frequency and complexity, according to Aon’s M&A C-Suite report and insights. Dealmakers have rarely experienced a period like this; each quarter since late 2020 seems to set new records in terms of global deal value or volume, as recovery in M&A activity from the lows of the COVID-19 pandemic continues. In this episode of “On Aon,” host Julia Olivares, Head of Internal Communications, Aon Australia, is joined by Aon’s Global Co-CEO of M&A and Transactions Solutions Alistair Lester for a discussion about Aon's M&A and Transaction Solutions and Aon’s recent report. Together they review the key values and risks associated with M&A, the main factors that have contributed to the growing complexities in the M&A space and how the ways in which dealmakers define and calculate “value” have evolved. Alistair highlights the key values and risks of M&A, including background on Aon’s due diligence practice and building insurance instruments. [1:06]The three main factors that have contributed to the growing complexities in the M&A space. [4:35]Rethinking M&A starts with a focus on value for clients.  [6:44]Key takeaways from the recent M&A C-suite study regarding ESG and digitalization. [9:24]The widespread and long-lasting impact of COVID-19 on the M&A landscape. [14:11]Surprising transactions in recent M&A activity. [17:41]A look at what is coming up next for Alistair at Aon. [19:28]Additional Resources:Don’t miss the full M&A C-Suite series, and press release.Find more M&A and Transaction Solutions insights here.ICYMI, episode 8 featured Lewis Lee, CEO of Aon’s Intellectual Property Solutions, discussing intellectual property valuation. Listen here.Aon’s websiteTweetables:“We’re bringing the huge capital of the insurance industry to bear in a slightly different context by deploying insurance instruments in M&A deals.” — Alistair Lester“These are issues that are affecting policies, whether they’re doing a multi-billion-dollar transaction or a single figure, million-dollar transaction.”  — Alistair Lester“We believe ESG due diligence will become as important as financial due diligence in the very near future.” — Alistair Lester