Top M&A legal advisors in automotive sector for first half of 2025 unveiled

The automotive sector has seen significant M&A activity in the first half of 2025, with A&O Shearman emerging as the top legal adviser by deal value. A&O Shearman advised on automotive M&A deals worth $2.17 billion, securing the top spot according to GlobalData’s Deals Database.

On the other hand, CMS and Kirkland & Ellis have taken the lead in terms of deal volume, each advising on four deals in the automotive sector. Kirkland & Ellis, which was the top adviser by volume in H1 2024, retained its position in H1 2025. CMS, on the other hand, improved its ranking from the third position in H1 2024 to the top position in H1 2025.

Aurojyoti Bose, GlobalData lead analyst, pointed out that A&O Shearman’s ranking by value made a significant jump from the eighth position in H1 2024 to the top spot in H1 2025. This increase was driven by the firm’s involvement in the $1.4 billion deal for the acquisition of Dowlais by American Axle & Manufacturing. In addition to leading by value, A&O Shearman also held the fifth position by volume in H1 2025.

Cravath Swaine & Moore, Norton Rose Fulbright, and Slaughter and May shared the second spot by value, each advising on deals worth $1.4 billion. Following closely, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton advised on a deal valued at $735 million, highlighting their capability in handling significant transactions in the industry.

In terms of volume, AZB & Partners and Baker McKenzie were tied for the third position, with each firm advising on three deals. They were followed by A&O Shearman advising on two deals. GlobalData’s league tables are based on real-time tracking of company websites, advisory firm websites, and other reliable sources, ensuring accuracy and reliability in the data.

The company’s dedicated team of analysts monitors these sources to gather in-depth details for each deal, including adviser names. To further enhance the robustness of the data, GlobalData seeks submissions of deals from leading advisers.

Overall, the first half of 2025 has seen a flurry of M&A activity in the automotive sector, with A&O Shearman leading the way in deal value. The industry continues to evolve and attract significant investment, driving growth and consolidation within the market.