International connections look to the future

L-R Mark Wilson (Catalyst), Marcin Kurowski (Ipopema, host), Darrell Butler (Chair Mergers Alliance), Andy Currie (Catalyst)

A recovery in worldwide M&A is definitely underway was the main conclusion of the latest conference held by Mergers Alliance, Catalyst's international partnership, in Warsaw in early November.

Led by managing partner Andy Currie, four members of the Catalyst team attended the conference hosted by Polish partner firm Ipopema.

Aside from formal presentations from members and potential new members to the Alliance, discussion focused on the differing stages of recovery around the world and the impact that would have on M&A over coming months.

Poland for example was described by Michael Harvey, director at Ipopema as having a 'good recession', with growth already underway again and the stock market remaining steady in the latter half of 2009. There were also positive signs from Russia and Germany in particular, although it was clear that not all countries within the Alliance were in the same position.

Delegates will next meet in early 2010, although there are various sector team meetings planned before the end of 2009 to share knowledge and expertise amongst members.