TLDR:
M&A refers to the consolidation of companies or assets through various types of transactions including mergers, acquisitions, tender offers, asset purchases, and management buyouts, driven by strategic growth, synergies, or financial goals.
M&A Process Overview
The M&A process follows a structured sequence: (1) Strategic rationale — identifying why the deal creates value; (2) Target identification — screening potential candidates; (3) Approach and NDA — confidential discussions begin; (4) Due diligence — comprehensive review of the target; (5) Valuation and bid — determining what to pay; (6) Negotiation — term sheet and definitive agreement; (7) Regulatory approvals — antitrust, securities, and sector-specific filings; (8) Closing — funds transfer and ownership change. Each phase can take weeks to months, and deals can fail at any stage.