On the surface, 2022 was a solid year of M&A deals. But on closer look, shifting macroeconomic conditions stalled the roaring growth of the industry in the second half of the year. Momentum was lost when deal announcements went downhill, and the reality of surging inflation set in. Midway through 2023, are industry leaders keeping their feet on the accelerators or slamming their brakes in the face of eminent turbulence? With the tech world seemingly waning in attractiveness given regulatory scrutiny on data privacy, security issues, and, most recently, the great tech layoffs, is it finally time for non-tech companies to step into the spotlight? What is the scope for companies to rethink their strategic direction and further intensify their focus on tech capabilities and acquisitions? Importantly, where are industry leaders anticipating industry-defining deals in this M&A cycle?