CMS Partners Horea Popescu, Alexander Rakosi, and Ryszard Manteuffel discuss the ebb and flow of M&A deals in CEE, highlighting that the M&A landscape experienced a significant drop in overall deal values prompting strategic shifts amid ongoing geopolitical and financing challenges.

As we near the conclusion of the first quarter of 2025, it is clear that the Greek corporate landscape and M&A market are undergoing significant changes influenced by a variety of economic, regulatory, and social factors. While the M&A sector experienced steady activity over the past two years, its overall momentum was relatively muted, primarily due to geopolitical tensions, social dynamics, and inflationary pressures. However, a much-anticipated increase in traction appears to be on the horizon, making a comprehensive understanding of the current trends and challenges within the market crucial to effectively navigate and track this evolving environment.

On January 24, 2025, the Council of State, Greece’s highest administrative court, issued four landmark judgments. These are Decisions No 146, 147, 148, and 149/2025 of the Council of State in Plenary Session, published on January 24, 2025, and made available to the public on February 5, 2025. The decisions are expected to significantly impact the country’s real estate market.

The increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters pose significant risks to financial markets worldwide. In Greece, a country prone to wildfires, earthquakes, and floods, these challenges are particularly pressing. The performance of Greek banks and financial institutions is often negatively impacted by natural disasters. As a result, they are increasingly focusing on integrating natural disaster risk management into their bond loan structures to enhance financial stability and ensure market resilience.

Austria’s financial sector is experiencing significant regulatory shifts. These changes are reshaping the landscape for both domestic and foreign entities operating in the Austrian market.

Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles are becoming increasingly popular worldwide, including in Austria, with the drone global market to exceed USD 55 billion by 2030, reflecting their global importance. Drones can serve both as recreational gadgets and as professional tools for photographers, farmers, emergency responders, and other professionals. As with any new technology the benefits must be weighed against the risks.

European Commercial Courts are positioning themselves as alternatives to other national courts as they remain closely tied to domestic court systems.