Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity in Africa’s startup ecosystem rose sharply in 2025, with 67 deals recorded—a 72% increase signalling growing maturity in the continent’s venture landscape. Because acquisitions are the dominant form of startup exit in Africa, the increase points to improving liquidity for founders and investors.

Ethiopia is deepening its shift from a tightly controlled foreign-exchange regime toward a more market-oriented model, with significant implications for businesses, investors, and households.