R. Fauli-Oller
Journal of Economics and Management Strategy – 9.2 (2000) 189-210

Keywords: takeover,waves,profitability,antitrust


Abstract: Horizontal takeovers often occur in waves. A sequence of takeovers is obtained in a Cournot setting with cost asymmetries. They are motivated by two different reasons: (1) a low realization of demand increases the profitability of takeovers; (2) takeovers raise the profitability of future takeovers. A possible explanation of merger races is also obtained by showing that firms buying in the first place pay a lower price for their targets.