The phrase "recent merger" refers to the coming together of two or more companies very recently. It means that these companies have decided to join forces and operate as a single entity. Full definition
Recent merger activity, a changing political climate, and the company's significant IP portfolio is poised to create a virtual monopoly of mobile and telecommunications technology. (zdnet.com)
There's plenty of reason to believe that the pickup in recent mergers and acquisitions is only the beginning. (thecollegeinvestor.com)
We have been involved in many of the largest and most notable recent mergers and acquisitions transactions and securities offerings involving technology companies. (davispolk.com)