The chart highlights the top companies engaged in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) from 2008 to 2020, showcasing their average number of deals per year. Accenture leads the list with an impressive 9.1 deals annually, primarily in the business services sector. This is followed by Microsoft and IBM, both major players in the ICT software industry, with 6.7 and 6.1 deals respectively. Notably, Apple and Cisco, both in the ICT hardware sector, also feature prominently, indicating a strong trend of technological companies driving M&A activities. ASSA ABLOY, a key player in the industrials sector, stands out with 5.1 deals, reflecting the sector's dynamic nature. The presence of companies like Altaba in the financial sector and Hexagon in ICT software further underscores the diverse range of industries actively pursuing M&A strategies. This data reveals a significant inclination towards technological advancements and consolidation within the ICT sectors, while also highlighting the strategic importance of M&A in maintaining competitive advantage across various industries.