IMAA Institute – Insights/Blog

Dealmaking Under Fire: How the Iran Conflict Might Reshape the 2026 M&A Landscape

The Iran‑Israel‑US conflict, barely two weeks old, has abruptly halted the 2026 M&A upswing that was driven by easing inflation and lower rates. Early signals show the market flipping from a seller‑friendly auction environment to a buyer’s market, with cash‑rich acquirers demanding stronger protections. Energy price spikes from threats to the Strait of Hormuz are reshaping valuation assumptions, especially for assets with Gulf exposure. Deal structures are evolving, with earn‑outs, bespoke working‑capital buffers, and tighter sanctions clauses becoming standard practice.