Episode 29 of Mergerspresso, Addleshaw Goddard’s corporate finance podcast, explores the growing proliferation of share buyback programmes across the public markets and why returning capital to shareholders has become a major strategic priority for listed companies.

Host Simon Wood is joined by guest Jeremy Cruse to discuss how buybacks have evolved from routine corporate housekeeping into a key feature of capital allocation strategy. They examine why boards are increasingly using buybacks to respond to shareholder expectations, support undervalued share prices and defend against opportunistic bidders and activist campaigns.

The episode also considers the balance between returning capital and investing for growth, particularly at a time when valuations and market sentiment are shifting. Simon and Jeremy discuss the importance of aligning buybacks with broader capital strategy, including dividends, leverage and long-term investment planning, and why disciplined execution remains critical to maintaining investor confidence.

Technology transactions are being reshaped by AI, but the real challenge for leaders is understanding what creates value and what can quietly derail a deal.

In this episode of Inside Tech Minds, Carly Gulliver speaks with James Dawson, Corporate Finance Partner, and Damon Rosamond-Lanzetta, Head of Tech Sector at Addleshaw Goddard, about what makes technology transactions succeed in an AI-driven market. Drawing on real-world deal experience, the conversation explores the strategic, operational and commercial decisions that increasingly define successful outcomes.

The episode focuses on the issues that matter most during modern technology transactions: why involving advisers early is critical, why integration risk is now a core deal issue rather than a day-two problem, and how overstating “AI-powered” capabilities can conceal significant commercial and operational risks. Topics also include the infrastructure underpinning AI growth from data centres and power through to legacy systems as well as how AI is reshaping governance expectations, value creation and buy-versus-build decisions.

Essential listening for CEOs, CIOs, CTOs and deal teams navigating AI-driven transactions with a focus on execution, integration and long-term value rather than hype.

Enjoyed the episode? Follow and subscribe to Inside Tech Minds on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and, if you have a moment, leave a review to help others discover the show.

Learn more about Addleshaw Goddard’s work in technology and digital transformation: https://www.addleshawgoddard.com/en/sectors/technology-lawyers/

Episode 28 of Mergerspresso, Addleshaw Goddard’s corporate finance podcast, explores the rapid rise of the space economy and asks whether the final frontier has become the next market. With growing momentum around a potential record-breaking SpaceX IPO and renewed global focus following Artemis II, space is firmly moving into the commercial spotlight.

Host Lucy Robson is joined by guests Alex Hogarth and Brian Macreadie to discuss how space has evolved from a government-led endeavour into a fast-growing commercial ecosystem. They examine the rise of low Earth orbit as a hub for satellites, telecoms and data, and the role of private companies in transforming the economics of space through reusable rockets and scalable infrastructure.

The episode also explores the increasing importance of public-private partnerships in supporting ambitious projects such as lunar development, and how space is now being viewed through a commercial lens, from supply chains to capital markets. Lucy, Alex and Brian consider what this shift means for investment, innovation and the broader global economy, as space transitions from exploration to a scalable market opportunity.

Cyber incidents can now escalate from a technical issue to a board‑level crisis in hours.

In the opening episode of Inside Tech Minds, Carly Gulliver speaks with James Moss, Director of Cyber Investigations at Addleshaw Goddard, about what senior leaders need to understand about cyber risk in 2026. Drawing on real‑world experience investigating high‑profile incidents including James’s role at the Information Commissioner’s Office during the Cambridge Analytica investigation the conversation offers an inside view of how cyber crises unfold.

The episode focuses on the decisions that matter most when things go wrong: how the threat landscape is evolving, why preparation is critical, and how organisations can protect themselves legally, operationally and reputationally. Topics include legal privilege, cyber insurance, regulatory scrutiny and working with forensic experts under pressure and what rising public and regulatory expectations mean for leaders accountable for trust and compliance.

Essential listening for CEOs, CTOs, CIOs, General Counsel and board members navigating cyber risk in an increasingly complex digital environment.

Learn more about Addleshaw Goddard’s work in technology, cyber and digital: https://www.addleshawgoddard.com/en/sectors/technology-lawyers/

Technology decisions now sit at the heart of strategy, shaping risk, growth and reputation at the very top of the organisation.

Inside Tech Minds is a podcast for leaders who need to understand what’s really happening across today’s technology agenda, and what it means in practice. Each episode explores the issues shaping the tech landscape - from cyber security, AI and data protection to digital transformation, technology transactions and emerging risks.

At the intersection of business, technology and law, Inside Tech Minds brings together industry leaders and technology specialists for focused, real‑world conversations that cut through the noise. Hosted by Carly Gulliver, the podcast is built for busy C‑suite and senior decision‑makers, offering clear, practical insight without jargon helping leaders stay ahead of the technology challenges that matter most.

Learn more about Addleshaw Goddard’s work in technology, cyber and digital: https://www.addleshawgoddard.com/en/sectors/technology-lawyers/

Episode 27 of Mergerspresso, Addleshaw Goddard’s corporate finance podcast, explores whether fear of missing out is one of the most powerful drivers of M&A activity.

Host Lucy Robson is joined by Angus Rollo to discuss how rumours of mega deals and sector consolidation can quickly trigger competitive responses across a market. From insurance to natural resources, they consider how talk of mergers between major players sharpens strategic focus, accelerates partner searches and pushes companies to pursue scale or acquire key capabilities.

The episode examines the balance between strategic necessity and reactive deal-making. While consolidation can deliver genuine synergies and competitive advantage, Lucy and Angus reflect on the risks of allowing FOMO to override discipline, particularly in volatile markets where timing and valuation remain critical.

Is it a sharp catalyst or an expensive impulse purchase? They unpack the difference, all in the time it takes to make your coffee.

Episode 26 of Mergerspresso, Addleshaw Goddard’s corporate finance podcast, looks at the rise of modern shareholder activism and the growing risk of stock drop claims against listed companies.

Host Simon Wood is joined by AG litigators Sivan Daniels and Emily Tilden-Smith to discuss how the accuracy of ESG credentials and public disclosures can make or break a PLC’s reputation. They explore why shareholder claims are increasingly focused on alleged misstatements, how litigation funding models are evolving, and why settlements are thriving in the legal grey areas these claims create.

The episode also considers what this shifting landscape means for boards and directors, as governance, disclosure and investor expectations continue to converge, all in the time it takes to make your coffee.

Episode 25 of Mergerspresso, Addleshaw Goddard’s corporate finance podcast, explores the key M&A themes shaping financial services and technology deals in 2026.

Host Simon Wood is joined by AG sector leaders Hardeep Plahe and Elvan Hussein to discuss how businesses are balancing scale and transformative growth. They examine consolidation in banks, insurers and wealth managers, the strategic role of AI and fintech in digital transformation, and the importance of cyber resilience for tech companies.

The episode also considers the rising influence of private equity in financial services, and how carve-outs of high-tech divisions are driving value creation and investment opportunities.

For a deeper dive into the trends shaping 2026, AG’s 2026 M&A Outlook brings together detailed insights on the next wave of strategic M&A activity and business reshaping across sectors.