The high rate of growth in middle-market M&A seen in the spring resumed in October, with dealmakers reporting significant acceleration in activity, according to the Mid-Market M&A Conditions Index (MACI), a barometer created by Mergers & Acquisitions and sponsored by PwC. (See related graphic.)

The MACI Composite score soared to 59.9 in October, up from 53.8 in September. That score puts October in third place for 2014, behind April and March. October (such as ACG conferences in Philadelphia, Chicago and London), which bursts with conferences and other networking opportunities for dealmakers, often plays a pivotal role in M&A. In 2013, October and December each delivered 260 deals, making them the year’s most fruitful months for middle-market M&A.

Early-stage deal flow rose in October, as reflected in a Leads score of 73.2, up from 62.2 in September. The score for Signed Letters increased to 67.3 in October, up from 53.8 in September.

The MACI is a diffusion index. Readings above 50 indicate an expansion in M&A activity, and readings below 50 indicate a contraction.

For more coverage on October deal flow, click here.