M&A deal origination has traditionally relied on relationships, banker flow, and proprietary networks. Alternative data is increasingly used to complement those channels: to spot sectors or companies that are inflecting, to screen for potential targets, and to support commercial due diligence. This post summarizes how alternative data fits into M&A and deal origination and what to watch for when adopting it.
The role of alternative data in deal flow
Thematic and sector screening. Search trends, social engagement, and web or app traffic can highlight themes or categories that are gaining momen