A Research Agenda for Mergers and Acquisitions

Elgar Research Agendas outline the future of research in a given area. Leading scholars are given the space to explore their subject in provocative ways, and map out the potential directions of travel. They are relevant but also visionary. This Research Agenda poses unique questions and perspectives on how to generate impactful research on mergers and acquisitions. Bringing together a mix of established and emerging scholars, it outlines how future research in the field can enable managers to make better decisions and improve mergers and acquisition success. Focusing on new areas of investigation, the Research Agenda provides conceptual, quantitative and qualitative insights into: pre-merger uncertainty, executive decision-making, network relationships and actors, and project management. It highlights the complex and heterogeneous nature of acquisitions, and the many actors impacted by them. Contributing authors present key strategies to avoid stagnation in mergers and acquisitions research by rethinking constructs, identifying neglected and novel areas of investigation, and developing new theoretical perspectives. For example, it argues for a deeper understanding of acquisitions beyond their impacts on the financial performance of firms to consider additional outcomes. A Research Agenda for Mergers and Acquisitions is an important resource for academics and doctoral students in accounting, economics, finance and management. It is also a useful guide for corporate restructuring consultants seeking further insight into the field.