1 Semester Unit

Making an acquisition is one of the most complicated strategic decisions in business. Sometimes it is the only way a firm can achieve significant growth and gain a leading position in its market. However, successful acquisitions and mergers are few, mainly because only too often the acquirer makes the wrong choice, acquiring the target that is willing to be sold rather than the firm that suits the acquirer strategically. We examine a wide array of theoretical and practical aspects of mergers and acquisitions, focusing on M&A as a strategic decision executed by the management. We try to answer questions such as: Why and when should a firm acquire? How are M&As executed? What are the criteria for buying a firm? How much should it cost? How do we create value from M&A? What are the mistakes to be avoided? Classes are based on lectures, case studies and presentations.