Cross-Border M&A 2026 Checklist for Acquisitions

This document is a checklist guide for cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the United States, specifically for the year 2026. It outlines the significant increase in M&A activity in 2025, with a total of $4.6 trillion in deals, marking a 45.3% rise from the previous year. The guide details the importance of careful preparation for political, regulatory, cultural, and technical complexities associated with cross-border transactions. It emphasizes the need for strategic implementation and tailored deal structures to achieve successful outcomes. The document also discusses the role of CFIUS in regulating foreign investments, particularly after the expansion of its jurisdiction through the Foreign Investment Risk Review Modernization Act (FIRRMA). The checklist includes considerations for political and regulatory implications, the significance of pre-announcement communication strategies, and the scrutiny of personal data in acquisitions. This guide serves as a resource for parties involved in cross-border M&A to navigate the evolving landscape effectively.