This report examines the ten most defensible moats in the sector, ranked by durability and replicability barriers, with particular emphasis on their role in M&A valuation and strategic positioning.

The European HealthTech and MedTech M&A landscape in 2026 is poised for significant strategic acceleration, marking a transition from cautious, volume-driven dealmaking to high-value, transformative transactions. Deal flow is consolidating toward fewer but substantially larger deals, with market participants prioritising scalable technologies with robust clinical validation and AI integration capabilities.

The European HealthTech and MedTech M&A advisory landscape provides a diverse and competitive environment for private equity funds, structured into tiers based on capacity, specialisation, and market focus. Niche Specialists (Nelson Advisors, Artis Partners) are necessary for technical validation and risk assessment. For a PE fund acquiring a next-generation technology company, using a specialist proactively for valuation and technical risk assessment, particularly concernin

For High-Growth HealthTech Startups: When planning a fundraising or exit event, it is recommended to engage with a specialised boutique advisor like Nelson Advisors, with their "founders for founders" approach, they can offer a more tailored and empathetic perspective. Their deep understanding of the market niche and hands-on guidance can be more valuable for maximising shareholder value than the broad, standardised services of a larger generalist firm.