Generally, both mergers and acquisitions are strategic business decisions that help to drive growth, increase market share, and enhance the competitiveness of the business. Its main purpose is to create value for shareholders. It is very important for businesses to understand the variations of both of these processes when considering such ventures in today’s dynamic business environment.
What is a Merger?
It is the process of combining two independent and distinct companies of the same size into a single or united entity, as they are considered to be merged companies. Mergers are often strategic decisions that are made by businesses to operate under a single corporate structure to achieve various objectives in which they will be able to expand market share, gain access to new markets or technologies, achieve economies of scale, and enhance competitiveness.
There are various types of mergers, including:
Horizontal merger: It is the combination of two industries in which these firms operate in the same space, often as competitors, and produce the same goods or services as combined forces. The primary purpose is to strengthen the market position, increase efficiency, and reduce competition.
Vertical Merger: This process involves merging companies operating at different stages of the supply chain, such as a manufacturer merging with a distributor or supplier. Its purpose is to streamline operations, improve coordination, and reduce costs.
Conglomerate Merger: This is a type of merger in which companies are unrelated regarding their products, services, or industries. It aims to diversify the business portfolio, reduce risk, and explore new revenue streams.
What is an Acquisition?
On the other hand, an acquisition is a business transaction that occurs when one company purchases and gains control over another company. These transactions are essential to mergers and acquisitions (M&A) processing. It is a career path in business law or finance that focuses on the purchasing, selling, and consolidation of companies.
Acquisitions can be both friendly and hostile, such as:
Friendly Acquisition: It is a friendly takeover of a target company with the consent or approval of the management and board of directors. It is the process by which the company’s management agrees to the acquisition willingly. The two companies work together to negotiate terms, conduct due diligence, and finalise the transaction.
Hostile Takeover: It is the process by which the acquiring company attempts to purchase a controlling stake in the target company without the approval or consent of the corporation’s management. This process may involve directly approaching the target company’s shareholders and making a tender offer to purchase their shares.