2025 Insights | Insights | Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP

As we step into a new year, the potential shifts under a second Trump administration loom large. Our 2025 Insights publication analyzes the impacts these changes could have on both U.S. and global business environments, including on dealmaking, regulatory scrutiny and enforcement actions. The ability to adeptly navigate these evolving areas will be critical for success in the year ahead.

The Deal Landscape

Resilient Economy and Promises of Lessened Regulation, Lower Taxes Raise Hopes for a Surge in M&A
Keep Your Seatbelts Fastened: The Wild Antitrust Ride May Not Be Over
Betting on the ‘Trump Trade’ To Make the Capital Markets Great Again
Rising Investment in AI Requires Financial Sponsors To Address Unique Risks
Sovereign Wealth Funds and Liberalized Rules Are Driving the Growth of Middle Eastern Business Hubs

A Focus on Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies Stand To Gain From New Regulators and a Receptive Congress
A Significant Shift Away From ESG and Toward Crypto Is Expected at the SEC

Revisiting Regulations and Policies

US Federal Regulation of AI Is Likely To Be Lighter, but States May Fill the Void
Trump 2.0 Could Mean a More Bank- and Fintech-Friendly Environment
Some States Prepare for the Expected Rollback of Biden Environmental Regulations
Employers’ DEI Initiatives Are Likely To Be Targeted in the Second Trump Administration
Approach to Corporate Enforcement May Become More Business-Friendly
Possible Tax Reforms Could Run Up Against Deficit and Debt Concerns
Drug Pricing and Health Care Fraud Remain Key Issues

The Global and Cross-Border Outlook

Decoding Tariff Threats: What Importers Can Expect on Day 1 and Beyond
In the US and Europe, Export and Import Controls May Be Expanded
China Merger Control Process Should Remain Navigable Even if Tensions Rise
Political Changes Are Unlikely To Fundamentally Alter Key Sanctions