Kimberly Smith Quoted in Octus on Increase in Carve-Out Deals

Kimberly Smith, partner and global chair of Katten's Corporate department, was quoted in an Octus article that discusses optimism in the middle-market M&A space due to an expected surge in carve-out deals.

Corporate dealmakers are increasingly turning to carve-out transactions to boost efficiency and unlock value, especially as the economic environment remains uncertain. These targeted divestitures, which focus on streamlining operations and shedding non-core units, have captured the attention of both businesses and investors eager to capitalize on the potential for strategic growth in 2025 and beyond.

Kimberly emphasized the momentum behind this trend, stating: "We are seeing carve-out deals come to market, driven in some cases by corporate sellers unloading their less profitable and/or non-core businesses. This trend may continue or even accelerate if a potential recession continues to loom and business leaders find it prudent to batten down the hatches in preparation for tougher times ahead."

"Shift to Asset-Light Business Models Facilitating Carve-Out Activity for Middle-Market M&A," Octus, July 11, 2025