1.3. Key Aspects of This Study

34

1.3.1. Research Questions

34

1.3.2. Phases of the Acquisition Process and Focus of This Research

35

1.3.3. Methodology

43

1.3.4. Contributions

45

Chapter 2: Theoretical Framework for This Research

51

2.1. Introduction

51

2.1.1. Main Points

52

2.2. Conditions Under Which Acquisitions May Occur

54

2.2.1. Introduction

54

2.2.2. Factors That Contribute to the Mergers and Acquisitions Climate

57

2.2.3. Factors That Contribute to Mergers and Acquisitions by Individual Companies

63

2.2.4. Factors That Contribute to the Attractiveness of Acquisition Candidates

74

2.2.5. Summary

83

2.3. Preliminary Explanatory Model

84

2.3.1. Introduction

84

2.3.2. The Nature and Purpose of the Preliminary Explanatory Model

85

2.3.3. Variables Incorporated Into the Preliminary Explanatory Model

86

2.3.4. Simplifying Approaches and Assumptions on Which the Preliminary Explanatory Model Is Based

98

2.3.5. Summary

103

2.4. SDM Framework Used in This Research

104

2.4.1. Introduction

104

2.4.2. The Use of Decision Models in the Fragmented Field of SDM Research

104