Looking at deal activity by value as we approach the end of Q1 2011 brings some interesting questions to mind.

Is Italy looking to protect its key companies from its most acquisitive neighbour?

Yesterday the Sunday Times carried an article suggesting that HMV might try to improve its burdensome debt position by possibly selling off Waterstone’s, the nationwide book chain.

Speculation has been growing in the press that LVMH could be interested in making a bid for Jimmy Choo.

It’s not what you develop but, as ever, the timing of your developments and who your products become associated with.