Event Report

Introduction

The Legal 500 once again partnered with Masouros & Partners to create a dedicated platform that brought together leading in-house lawyers and financial experts to explore the evolving M&A landscape in Greece. The roundtable delved into key market trends, economic conditions, industry-specific challenges, legal due diligence, and the impact of technology on M&A processes. Esteemed industry experts, including Dimitris Psarris and Christos Masouras, alongside respected corporate counsel Dimitris Polychronopoulos, Yiota Krassakopoulou, Argyris Economou, and Amalia Balla, shared valuable insights, making the event both engaging and informative. The discussion was moderated by Pavlos Masouros, Managing Partner at Masouros & Partners, and Francisco Castro, Research Editor at The Legal 500.

General Market Overview and Economic Conditions

The session opened with an analysis of market trends, inflation, interest rates, and overall economic conditions, offering a recap of 2024 and insights into expected changes for 2025. Dimitris Psarris highlighted key trends shaping the M&A landscape, emphasising the need for dealmakers to adapt to economic volatility, regulatory shifts, and technological advancements. Christos Masouras provided an in-depth analysis of the impact of inflation and rising interest rates on M&A activity, noting a more cautious approach from investors and strategic buyers. Dimitris Polychronopoulos discussed how high inflation and borrowing costs are influencing acquisition strategies, prompting companies to reassess valuations and financing structures. However, he acknowledged that his company has been largely unaffected by these challenges. Yiota Krassakopoulou explored the resurgence of distressed M&A in Greece, highlighting the growing interest in restructuring and distressed asset acquisitions as businesses navigate economic pressures.

Industry-Specific Trends and Challenges

Following a short break, the discussion shifted to sector-specific consolidation, investment patterns, and key challenges. Argyris Economou examined the likelihood of consolidation in the Greek energy sector, arguing that the market may not sustain numerous small RES players, making M&A a vital tool for industry restructuring. Christos Masouras outlined significant barriers to M&A activity, including regulatory complexities, financing difficulties, and geopolitical uncertainty, while proposing

strategies for sustainable growth. Amalia Balla provided insights into the hospitality and real estate sectors, highlighting the evolving role of banks in deal structuring and shifts in investor profiles amid economic challenges. Dimitris Polychronopoulos addressed the growing integration of ESG considerations into M&A strategies, noting the increasing investor demand for sustainable business practices and compliance-driven acquisitions.

Legal Due Diligence and Risk Mitigation

The conversation then turned to the evolving role of legal due diligence, particularly in distressed M&A and ESG compliance. Argyris Economou emphasised the growing prominence of ESG standards in due diligence, with investors placing greater scrutiny on environmental and social risks before proceeding with transactions. Yiota Krassakopoulou explained how legal due diligence is adapting to distressed M&A, with heightened focus on financial liabilities, contractual obligations, and regulatory compliance. Amalia Balla highlighted shifting priorities in due diligence exercises, stressing the increased sensitivity to economic risks and regulatory frameworks.

Technological Impact on M&A

The final segment of the roundtable addressed the transformative role of generative AI, digitalisation, and risk mitigation in M&A processes. Dimitris Psarris explored how generative AI is revolutionising due diligence, contract analysis, and risk assessment, noting that early adopters of AI-driven solutions are gaining a competitive edge. The discussion also examined how technology can mitigate execution risks in complex cross-border transactions, streamline processes, and reduce human error, ultimately enhancing deal efficiency.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The Greece M&A Roundtable 2025 provided a comprehensive analysis of the current M&A landscape, highlighting the interplay between economic conditions, regulatory developments, and industry-specific challenges. Participants gained valuable insights into how businesses are navigating inflationary pressures, integrating ESG considerations, and leveraging technology to optimise transactions.

Looking ahead, the panellists unanimously emphasised the importance of:

  • Continuous monitoring of economic conditions and their impact on M&A trends.
  • Strengthening legal and financial due diligence frameworks to address emerging risks.
  • Leveraging technology and AI to enhance efficiency and decision-making in deal processes.
  • Encouraging cross-industry collaboration to navigate regulatory and economic complexities.

As M&A activity in Greece continues to evolve, strategic adaptability and legal preparedness will be critical for successful dealmaking in an increasingly dynamic market. The Legal 500 looks forward to returning to Greece next year for another in-depth discussion on M&A, exploring the latest developments and market shifts that have occurred in the meantime.