Explore M&As, in simple terms

Mergers & Acquisitions For Dummies gives you useful techniques and real-world advice for making these business transactions a success, going beyond case studies to include international laws and regulations, environmental issues, and—most importantly—practical instructions you can really use. In plain English terms that anyone can understand, this book discusses the entire M&A process, including different types of transactions and structures, raising funds, partnering, identifying targets, business valuation, doing due diligence, closing the purchase agreement, and integrating new employees and new ways of doing business. If you’re getting involved in a merger with, or acquisition of, another company, read this book to gain a thorough understanding of what the heck is going on. Updated with deep dives into valuations, environmental issues, negotiating tips, and beyond.

• Walk through the merger and acquisition process in practical terms
• Learn the requirements and best practices you’ll need to follow
• Hire the people who will help you through any M&A scenario
• Conduct win-win negotiations and get the most out of M&As

Mergers & Acquisitions For Dummies is a great choice for business owners and investors who need more information on the process and steps involved in successful M&A transactions.

Bill Snow is a noted authority on mergers and acquisitions who has represented buyers and sellers in a multitude of industries. He speaks regularly at events, panels, professional groups, executive forums, and college classes, and is registered with FINRA as an investment banking representative.

Introduction 1

Part 1: Planning to Do a Transaction 9

Chapter 1: Explaining Mergers and Acquisitions 11

Chapter 2: Learning M&A Rules and Decorum 27

Chapter 3: Utilizing the M&A Process 37

Chapter 4: Making Sense of the Economics of M&A 43

Chapter 5: Finding Buyers and Sellers 67

Part 2: Marketing the Transaction 101

Chapter 6: Explaining and Influencing Valuation 103

Chapter 7: Creating and Reviewing an Offering Document 129

Chapter 8: Reading and Writing the Offers 161

Part 3: Selling the Transaction 177

Chapter 9: Selecting Advisors 179

Chapter 10: Hiring an Investment Banker 193

Chapter 11: Arranging Meetings Between Buyer and Seller 207

Chapter 12: Financing the Transaction 219

Chapter 13: Learning How to Negotiate Successfully 245

Part 4: Concluding and Combining 267

Chapter 14: Confirming Due Diligence 269

Chapter 15: Documenting the Transaction 283

Chapter 16: Closing and Integrating the Acquisition 293

Chapter 17: Ensuring a Successful Acquisition 309

Part 5: The Part of Tens 325

Chapter 18: Ten Transaction Pitfalls 327

Chapter 19: Ten Reasons Acquisitions Fail 331

Chapter 20: Ten Lurking Problems for Sellers 335