We’ve been hearing a lot of the same questions lately:
How’s the market? Who’s buying? What are valuations like?
These concerns are top of mind for many owners trying to figure out if now is the right time to sell.
Osage Advisors President Keith Dee is tackling today’s big question: What does the M&A market look like, and should you go to market now, or wait?
Uncertainty Is the Current Climate
We started the year with strong enthusiasm for the M&A market. But as 2025 has unfolded, a mix of geopolitical tensions, inconsistent labor reports, and capital expenditure slowdowns have added uncertainty to the equation.
For many business owners, this brings up critical questions:
- Should I be hiring?
- Should I invest in new equipment?
- Is now the right time to sell?
The Data Tells Two Stories
On one hand, large-cap and mid-cap deal volumes are down with some reports showing 30–40% declines year-over-year.
But here’s the good news: The lower middle market is holding steady.
This is the space Osage specializes in, and we’re continuing to see solid valuations and strong buyer interest.
Why?
- Many lower middle market deals can be financed with cash or existing credit lines
- Buyers are still sitting on capital and looking for good opportunities
- Deal structures are more flexible and easier to get across the finish line
Is It a Good Time to Sell?
That depends on your business. If you’re hitting key performance metrics, the market is still active and rewarding.
Now might be a good time to sell if:
- Revenues and profitability are stable or growing
- You serve a diverse customer base
- Your industry is considered attractive (e.g., aerospace, manufacturing, business services)
- You have strong backlog and pipeline visibility
Consider waiting if:
- Profits or revenue are down
- You’ve lost a major customer
- You’re heavily impacted by tariffs or supply chain disruptions
Prepare Now, Even If You Plan to Wait
Even if the timing isn’t right to go to market today, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get ready. Preparing now…current financials, system documentation, setting your growth strategy, gives you the flexibility to move quickly when conditions improve.
“We believe the market will come back strong,” Keith says. “But if your business is ready now, you may not need to wait.”
Certain Members of Osage Advisors are Registered Representatives of and conduct securities transactions through StillPoint Capital, LLC, Tampa, FL. Osage and StillPoint are not affiliated.
Osage Advisors provides a lot of guidance in the M&A market here on our blog and on our YouTube channel and Podcast.
