This semester, we are introducing this chapter’s Mergers & Acquisitions Pitch program. M&A activity is integral not only to the investment banking world, but also in understanding what moves the markets. This makes it incredibly useful to know how M&A works. This program will be a 2-part introduction into what M&A is: what qualitative factors to take into consideration when pitching 2 companies, and how to quantitatively back your argument with a merger model.
Deadlines
September 29th Must choose group partners and what 2 companies you will be pitching
October 6th First individual group meeting, where you will explain to me which companies you
are pitching and why. An outline and rubric for the initial presentation will be handed out
October 20th Each group must come up with a 5-minute presentation on their chosen companies,
and the qualitative reasons behind why they should merge
November 3rd Follow-up individual group meeting. Going over strengths, and where the group
can improve going forward
November 17th Valuation teach-in. Going over various ways to value a company, and what type of
valuation is more appropriate for each type of company
November 24th 2-3 page analysis (double-spaced) due, reflecting valuation of both companies
and a conclusion on whether this supports or undermines the original pitch
December 1st Groups will present their methods of valuation, and the outcomes they inferred
from these presentations. Presentation should span 5-7 minutes
December 5th – 9th Individual group meetings, covering overall semester performance and
outlining what the spring semester will look like. Final group meeting prior to the winter break
**WINTER BREAK**
January 26th Teach-in on projected combined balance sheets
February 2nd Projected combined balance sheets due over email, in addition to a 1 page (double-
spaced) analysis on resultant accretion / dilution
February 13th – 17th Individual group meetings on balance sheet feedback
April 6th 2 page (double-spaced) acquisition financing proposal due – should cover the method of
financing, and why the financing is feasible
April 27th Final presentation on proposed acquisition financing, results of projected
combined balance sheets, and accretion / dilution analysis. Presentation should be around 10