Slower Tech M&A Forecast in 2008

February 20 - Red Herring - In 2008, technology mergers and acquisitions will slow their torrid pace of last year, according to researcher 451 Group.

After four years of record-setting M&A levels, culminating in 2007's $476 billion, an uncertain economy is likely to put the brakes on dealmakers in 2008, analyst Brenon Daly said.

"It's more indicative of the general economy," Mr. Daly said, noting that a "mild cool-down" could come despite Microsoft's proposed $44.6 billion blockbuster acquisition of Yahoo. "Companies don't stop buying in downturns, but they temper their purchases. We saw that in 2001 and 2002. Tech M&A won't go away." Read More.