Global merger & acquisitions (M&A) volume was marginally down at US$2.70 trillion this year compared to that in 2010, according to a report by deal tracking company Dealogic.

It has taken into consideration deals up to December 20, 2011. In the corresponding period last year global M&A volume stood at US$2.74 trillion.

The year 2011 saw good deal activity in the first half when transactions worth US$1.52 trillion were announced. In the second half, M&A volumes dropped 22 per cent over the last year to US$1.18 trillion.

The fourth quarter was worst hit this year, as M&A deals worth US$537.1 billion were announced which is the lowest quarterly volume since Q3 2009, Dealogic said.