A new global survey reveals that a staggering 97 per cent of organisations cite significant challenges in transaction readiness, severely impeding their capacity to capitalise on strategic opportunities.
The findings, released in a report by the Diligent Institute in partnership with Wilson Sonsini, Oracle NetSuite, CFO Alliance, and the CFO Leadership Council, underscore widespread vulnerabilities in corporate systems globally.
Also Read: How M&A can supercharge your startup’s success
Despite prevailing economic and geopolitical uncertainties, nearly half of the surveyed executives (49 per cent) confirm that they still prioritise mergers and acquisitions (M&A) or strategic partnerships as key components of their growth strategy. However, the research indicates that most face significant hurdles when attempting to execute these deals effectively.
The report, which compiled responses from more than 200 global executives and governance professionals, focused on transaction readiness—the ability of organisations to efficiently navigate complex transactions such as M&A and capital deals.
Key obstacles and systemic gaps
The findings point to profound systemic gaps. Just 4 per cent of respondents reported that their Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) and financial systems are fully integrated and ready for major transactions. This lack of integration leaves organisations exposed and slow to seize opportunities.
The survey identified several critical obstacles impeding readiness, with limited resources cited as the top challenge (56 per cent of respondents).
Other significant hurdles include economic uncertainty (35 per cent), insufficient board alignment around transactions (31 per cent), and a lack of experienced personnel (28 per cent).
Dottie Schindlinger, Executive Director of the Diligent Institute, warned that organisations must immediately address these deficiencies. “Organisations that fail to address their glaring transaction readiness gaps risk falling behind in the deal-making landscape,” she stated.
Also Read: M&A in Asia: A strategic roadmap for venture builders
Schindlinger stressed that addressing the issue requires “prioritisation at the board level, defining roles and processes, and enhancing data quality,” noting that “The transaction readiness gap is real and yet entirely addressable”.
A cautious approach to deals
In response to market volatility and challenges, many organisations have adopted a more cautious and measured approach to M&A. Actions taken by respondents include delaying deals (49 per cent), enhancing due diligence processes (40 per cent), and adjusting financial modelling (46 per cent) due to economic uncertainty. These actions reflect broader global trends showing decreased deal activity and increased scrutiny of potential investments.
Rich Mullen, Partner in Wilson Sonsini’s M&A Practice, highlighted the strategic imperative for leaders. “The volatile economic landscape and rapid market shifts requires not only operational efficiency but also strategic legal planning and risk management.”
He emphasised that now is a “critical moment for leaders to understand how top-performing organisations are preparing for major deals, enabling them to transition from episodic preparation to an ‘always on’ business discipline”.
Limited tech adoption in transactions
Of particular relevance to the technology sector, the survey revealed that the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in transaction processes remains minimal. Only 5 per cent of respondents currently use AI-powered evaluations or data collection.
However, interest in the technology is growing. Organisations are beginning to explore leveraging AI-powered tools to enhance strategic analysis, compliance, and due diligence, indicating a likely future shift toward more sophisticated transaction management practices.
Also Read: ‘M&A process in SEA is stuck in the dark age’: say match.asia co-founders
The survey was conducted among 233 global executives from 25 July 2025 to 1 September 2025. While 56 per cent of respondents were based in North America and 15 per cent in Europe, the survey included representation from the Asia-Pacific region (12 per cent).
The post AI still missing in action: Global firms lag in using tech for M&A and compliance appeared first on e27.
A new global survey reveals that a staggering 97 per cent of organisations cite significant challenges in transaction readiness, severely impeding their capacity to capitalise on strategic opportunities. The findings, released in a report by the Diligent Institute in partnership with Wilson Sonsini, Oracle NetSuite, CFO Alliance, and the CFO Leadership Council, underscore widespread vulnerabilities in
The post AI still missing in action: Global firms lag in using tech for M&A and compliance appeared first on e27. Artificial Intelligence, Global, News, Reports, AI, Alliance, and Compliance, artificial intelligence, Diligent Institute, Governance, M&A, Oracle NetSuite, Risk e27