2026 M&A Market Update

An in-depth look at current capital markets activity and what’s shaping the deal environment heading into 2026. This session will explore trends in deal flow, evolving investment bank strategies, and valuation dynamics across sectors. We’ll also discuss how shifting macroeconomic conditions, interest rate expectations, and investor sentiment are influencing transaction structures and growth opportunities, with insights into what market participants should be watching as we move through 2026.

Jack Sadden | Co-Founder & Partner, Valesco Industries

Lindsey Wendler | Managing Director, 414 Capital

Wayne Vacek | Managing Director – Head of Consumer, Founders Advisors

Learning Objectives:

• Understand current capital markets trends and how they are expected to evolve in 2026

• Analyze recent deal flow activity and what it indicates about market momentum and sector opportunities

• Evaluate how valuation methodologies are shifting in response to macroeconomic conditions

SCHEDULE

4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Check-in & Networking

5:30 – 6:20 p.m. Program | 1 CPE in Finance

6:20 – 6:45 p.m. Networking & Wrap-up

STRATEGIC INVESTORS

S+H Consulting

Greenberg Traurig

Weaver

USI

REGISTRATION

Registration deadline | Monday 2/20/26

Open to FEI Dallas members, and non-members with financial or executive roles in the private equity sector.