The third quarter of 2025 was shaped by forensic accounting trends, ZEC final countdown, and green transition acceleration. In this report, BMC analyses the key developments that impacted the Strategy landscape during this period and their implications for our clients.
Executive Summary
Q3 2025 confirmed trends we had been tracking in the strategy space. The regulatory environment continued to evolve at a demanding pace, with new developments requiring agile adaptation from organisations. The indicators we monitor closely reflect a dynamic landscape, with clear opportunities for those who act ahead of the curve.
Activity in our Strategy department saw increased demand for advisory services, particularly regarding the management of the new regulatory framework. Companies with international structures showed greater need for cross-jurisdictional coordination.
Regulatory Updates
The key regulatory developments of this quarter were:
- CSDDD (CS3D): Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, transposition by Jul 2026
- Forensic accounting: new ICAC guidelines for damage quantification
- ZEC: application volumes decreasing as 2026 deadline approaches
These provisions have direct implications for the strategy strategies of our clients. We recommend reviewing internal procedures to ensure compliance within the established deadlines.
Key Indicators
Data we have analysed for Q3 2025 shows:
- M&A deals closed: 17
- Average deal size (€M): 60
- Foreign direct investment (%): +23.0%
- Private equity activity: High
These indicators reflect market evolution and help contextualise strategic decisions for the coming quarter. The combined analysis of these factors points to a consolidation trend with pockets of high activity in specific segments.
Outlook
Looking ahead to the next quarter, we expect activity in the strategy area to remain at elevated levels, driven by the close of pending transactions and new regulatory requirements. Organisations that have already begun their adaptation processes will be in a stronger competitive position.
Our M&A and corporate advisory services and business valuation services are available to support your organisation in managing these challenges. If you would like to analyse the specific impact of these developments on your business, do not hesitate to contact our team.
