Abstract:

Most of us will experience a merger or acquisition at some point in our careers, but many fail to produce the hoped-for benefits. Studies indicate that over half of public acquisitions end up reducing the value of the companies involved. Mergers are almost always more complex than expected, and the announcement press release is sometimes the high point, going downhill from there. Too often there are missed deadlines, major distraction from the core businesses, lasting resentments and a patchwork of non-integrated systems and procedures which haunt the new company for years. There have been many high profile acquisitions in the research industry in recent years and the trend looks set to continue. This panel discussion between three of our industry leaders will offer a wide ranging and unusually candid account of some recent examples along with practical advice on strategies and best practices.