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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Business
Lauren Almeida

London’s investment bankers and lawyers make more than £1bn in takeover frenzy

A footbridge leading to Canary Wharf, One Canada Square and surrounding tall, glassfronted buildings in the financial district
The value of mergers and acquisitions of UK-listed companies surged to about £100bn in 2026, helping drive multimillion-pound pay packets for bankers, lawyers and accountants working on the deals. Photograph: Mike Kemp/In Pictures/Getty Images

London’s investment bankers and lawyers have made more than £1bn from a frenzy of takeover deals this year, sparking anger over high City pay during the cost of living crisis.

The value of mergers and acquisitions of UK stock market listed companies has surged 175% in 2026 to $132.9bn (£100bn), according to the London Stock Exchange, as overseas buyers snap up British companies at record pace.

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