<p>In this episode, we sit down with Brent Baxter, CEO of the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG), to break down what’s really happening in the middle market M&amp;A landscape.</p><p>From rising deal flow and extended private equity hold periods to the growing role of AI in value creation, Brent shares insider insights backed by decades of experience and data from across the dealmaking ecosystem.</p><p>We explore why 2026 is shaping up to be a “swell” year for M&amp;A activity, what’s driving renewed momentum, and how investors, operators, and advisors can position themselves for what’s next.</p><p>Whether you&#39;re an investment banker, private equity professional, or aspiring dealmaker, this episode delivers practical insights on navigating today’s evolving market.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Guest:</strong> Brent Baxter<br><strong>Title:</strong> CEO, Association for Corporate Growth (ACG)</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Why 2026 could see a surge in middle market deal activity</li><li>The impact of rising private equity hold periods (4 → 6 years)</li><li>How interest rates and macro uncertainty delayed exits</li><li>Record levels of capital (“dry powder”) driving future deals</li><li>The role of AI in accelerating value creation—not replacing dealmakers</li><li>Sector trends: manufacturing slowdown and recovery signals</li><li>How relationships—not spreadsheets—drive real deals</li><li>Inside DealMAX: 3,400 attendees and 20,000+ meetings</li><li>The “stair-step” model of private equity exits</li><li>Career advice for young professionals entering M&amp;A</li></ul><ul><li>Middle market leads job creation—and PE-backed firms outperform</li><li>Investment banking pitch activity is rising sharply</li><li>AI is becoming central to operational efficiency and valuation strategy</li><li>More capital = more competition = more deal opportunities</li></ul><ul><li>“Deals happen on relationships.”</li><li>“2026 will be… swell.”</li><li>“The one certainty is uncertainty.”</li></ul>