Strategies Against Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) for Public and Privately Owned Companies: A Technical Note

Abstract

Javier Gonzalez Nunez and Sebastien de Beauffort

Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) are fundamental strategies for corporate growth, diversification, and consolidation. However, these transactions can pose significant risks to companies targeted for acquisition, particularly when the approach is unsolicited or hostile. Both public and privately owned companies must develop robust defense strategies to protect their independence or ensure optimal outcomes if an acquisition or merger becomes inevitable. This teaching note explores the various strategies companies can employ to defend against M&A threats. These strategies are influenced by factors such as company size, market conditions, governance structures, and geographic location. By examining these tactics, students will gain a deeper understanding of how firms can safeguard their interests in the face of M&A activity.

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