A new generation embraces M&A.

The article reports on increase in merger deals in the banking sector in Japan. The traditional negative Japanese attitude toward mergers and acquisitions, particularly in the banking and private equity fund businesses, is fading away. Proof of this is the healthy rise in the number of merger transactions from 2003 to 2005, which is expected to continue in 2006. A much higher volumes of deals would largely result the law allowing the tax changes on the treatment of share exchanges between foreign investors and Japanese companies.