If you were only to measure global M&A activity by news headlines, then the first half of 2011 would lead you to believe that everything is very rosy in the M&A garden.

Russia appears to be the only BRIC market Publicis is being slow to enter.

Imagine the irony if within the next year Northern Rock ended up a public company once again.

A new listing would complete the circle.

55 deals this year involving footwear companies