High Valuations Are Concerning: Robert Kindler

Top M&A advisor Robert Kindler warned in February 2026 that corporate valuations remain dangerously high, raising concerns about market sustainability amid economic uncertainty. Kindler, global M&A chair at Paul Weiss, noted executives are adopting cautious deal strategies, prioritizing balance sheet strength over aggressive expansion due to volatile financial conditions. Crypto’s role in M&A transactions grew in 2026, but Kindler emphasized persistent regulatory and valuation risks, urging firms to proceed with heightened due diligence. Large-scale mergers slowed as companies focused on smaller, strategic acquisitions to mitigate risk, reflecting a shift from pre-2025 megadeal trends. Industries like tech and media—Kindler’s specialty—faced particular scrutiny, with buyers demanding clearer synergies before committing to high-stakes deals.