Nomura Holdings has reclaimed the top position in advising on Japanese mergers and acquisitions for 2025, a record year for deal values. Transactions related to Japan surged 89% to ¥59.5 trillion.
In 2025, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) deals involving Japan reached a record high, with total values jumping 89% to ¥59.5 trillion. Nomura Holdings secured the leading role in advisory services, winning ¥18.6 trillion ($121 billion) in deals after finishing second in 2024. Goldman Sachs Group placed second overall.
Bloomberg-compiled data highlights a surge in both domestic and cross-border transactions, marking an exceptionally active year. Kei Nitta, a senior corporate managing director overseeing global M&A at Nomura Securities, said: “Both domestic and cross-border deals were numerous, making it an extremely active year.” He added: “Listed companies are actively pursuing M&A to enhance corporate value.”
This boom underscores how Japanese firms are increasingly turning to M&A to boost growth and value. Nomura's top ranking likely stems from its deep domestic networks and expertise in the market.