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Differences between Mergers and Acquisitions

Updated: Jan 18, 2023


Although mergers and acquisitions are similar, there are some significant differences.

Through a merger, two distinct companies become one new legal entity. Since it's uncommon for two comparable businesses to benefit equally by pooling their resources and personnel, including their CEOs, true mergers are uncommon.

Acquisitions, unlike mergers, do not lead to the creation of a new corporation. Instead, the purchasing corporation completely absorbs the purchased company. In some cases, this results in the liquidation of the purchased company. Buying a business is akin to purchasing a franchise or an already-running company.





Make an agreement for a merger or acquisition.

To proceed with the sale or merger, you must create a sales agreement. This agreement permits the purchase of a corporation's stock or assets. It should be reviewed by an attorney to ensure that it is correct and complete.

List all of the items up for sale, along with the names of the companies and their owners. Give the pertinent background information. Determine the level of access each company will have to financial information as well as how the business will be run before closing. Make a note of any modifications, broker fees, or other items that are important to the agreement's terms.

Don't omit any assets or obligations; doing so could lead to issues even after the sale has been completed.

transfer corporate control

Your agreement's terms will specify the procedures you must follow and the details of the ownership transfer. Having an attorney assist with this phase is generally advised.

Depending on the state law and the nature of your firm, you may need to register these changes with the state after the merger or acquisition is complete.

You may need to register new business bank accounts, obtain new state and federal tax IDs, reapply for licenses and permits, and take legal action to end your former business if the merger compels you to dissolve your original corporation and establish a new one.


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