The document discusses how mergers and acquisitions (M&A) valued at over $4.7 trillion took place in 2015. It argues that cloud computing can help drive further growth and competitiveness in M&A by enabling companies to capture synergies more quickly. Specifically, cloud infrastructure allows for faster IT delivery and cost reductions of 30% and nearly 30% on average respectively for M&A. Engaging the CIO early in the M&A process can help identify new sources of value from cloud and accelerate the benefits for deals.