The law firm's latest Global M&A Trends report will be published in January but a preview, based on the first 11 months, gives a positive outlook. Corporate partner Patrick Sarch said: 'All the signs point to a slow and steady recovery in the global M&A market in 2014. Developed economies are strengthening, finance is readily available and confidence is growing. Behind the scenes we are seeing renewed interest in M&A opportunities in developed markets. Europe in particular will come back into favour as acquirers seek to secure technology, skills and established brands at attractive valuations.' Source: FTSE Global Markets