The startup scene is buzzing as the new year begins, highlighted by significant mergers and acquisitions. Bench, a Canadian accounting startup, has been rescued from closure through an acquisition by Employer.com. Meanwhile, World Wide Technology announced a $1.25 billion cash deal for Softchoice, marking a noteworthy entry into 2025. Thomson Reuters secured its first mega-deal of the year with the $600 million acquisition of SafeSend. International startups are also securing funding, with Riyadh-based Calo raising $25 million for expansion efforts.