Stocks of possible M&A targets have been crushing the market. Goldman says these 6 are the most likely to get bought.

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has been on the rise in 2025, with a significant 29% increase in deal value. According to a report by Goldman Sachs, this trend is expected to continue into 2026, with another 15% rise in M&A deals projected. This surge in M&A activity has not only boosted candidate valuations but has also led to a flurry of speculation about potential acquisition targets.

Goldman Sachs has identified a list of firms that it sees as potential M&A targets, with six companies standing out as the most likely to be acquired in the near future. These companies have been highlighted as prime targets for dealmaking, and investors are advised to keep a close watch on them in the coming months.

One of the standout examples of M&A activity this year is the news that Electronic Arts is set to be taken private by a group of investors in what will be the largest leveraged buyout ever. This development sent EA’s stock soaring, up more than 20% in just two days following the announcement. This move underscores the potential for significant gains for companies involved in M&A deals.

In addition to Electronic Arts, other stocks have experienced a surge in value due to M&A excitement this year. As the M&A landscape continues to evolve, there is a universe of stocks that could potentially be acquired in the next 12 months, providing opportunities for investors to capitalize on potential gains.

Goldman Sachs’ report also highlights the overall positive impact of the recent wave of deal activity on a basket of potential M&A candidates. These stocks have outperformed the S&P 1500 by seven percentage points since the beginning of September, indicating the potential for significant returns for investors.

With the dollar value of M&A deals up 29% year-over-year and the number of deals increasing by 8% in 2025, Goldman Sachs anticipates further growth in dealmaking in 2026. This growth is expected to be driven by accelerating US economic growth, improving CEO confidence, and a rising equity market.

In conclusion, the M&A landscape is poised for continued growth and activity in the coming year. With a number of high-profile acquisitions already in the works and a list of potential targets identified by Goldman Sachs, investors have a unique opportunity to capitalize on the potential gains in the M&A market. By staying informed and monitoring these developments closely, investors can position themselves for success in the evolving M&A landscape.