Deal frenzy kicks off New Year

Takeover activity has had its strongest start to the year since 2000, with Google making headlines over its purchase of thermostat maker, Nest Labs.

After a subdued few years following the financial crisis, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has returned with a vengeance. Last Monday saw $100bn worth of takeovers announced worldwide, the strongest start to the year since 2000.

Among the most eye-catching deals were Japan's Suntory paying $16bn for US spirit maker Beam. US cable operator Charter's $61bn bid for its rival Time Warner was rebuffed; a tie-up would constitute the third-largest deal since the financial crisis.

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