The short version

Ari Paparo predicted on December 1, 2024: “2026 will see a significant rise in M&A activity.” Verdict: Still evolving. As of mid-2026, partial year data shows ongoing M&A in ad-tech. While some verticals (CTV, retail media) are seeing heightened deal activity, it is too early to definitively confirm a 'significant rise' across the entire sector compared to prior years. The…

Prediction by

Ari Paparo

On December 1, 2024

“2026 will see a significant rise in M&A activity.”

Follow-up

As of mid-2026, partial year data shows ongoing M&A in ad-tech. While some verticals (CTV, retail media) are seeing heightened deal activity, it is too early to definitively confirm a 'significant rise' across the entire sector compared to prior years. The prediction is directionally plausible but not yet conclusively validated or refuted.

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