This book highlights research-based case studies in order to analyze the wealth created in the world’s largest mergers and acquisitions (M&A). This book encourages cross fertilization in theory building and applied research by examining the links between M&A and wealth creation. Each chapter covers a specific case and offers a focused clinical examination of the entire lifecycle of M&A for each mega deal, exploring all aspects of the process. The success of M&A are analyzed through two main research approaches: event studies and financial performance analyses. The event studies examine the abnormal returns to the shareholders in the period surrounding the merger announcement. The financial performance studies examine the reported financial results of acquirers before and after the acquisition to see whether financial performance has improved after merger. The relation between method of payment, premium paid and stock returns are examined. The chapters also discuss synergies of the deal-cost and revenue synergies. Mergers and acquisitions represent a major force in modern financial and economic environment. Whether in times of boom or bust, M&As have emerged as a compelling strategy for growth. The biggest companies of modern day have all taken form through a series of restructuring activities like multiple mergers. Acquisitions continue to remain as the quickest route companies take to operate in new markets and to add new capabilities and resources. The cases covered in this book highlights high profile M&As and focuses on the wealth creation for shareholders of acquirer and target firms as a financial assessment of the merger’s success. The book should be useful for finance professionals, corporate planners, strategists, and managers.

The downturn in the oil commodity price starting in 2014 had a chilling effect on oil and gas M&A. However, recent price stabilisation has improved the outlook for M&A activity, making a second edition of this book most timely.A feature of the M&A industry has always been its variety of participants, ranging from integrated energy conglomerates to entrepreneurial frontier explorers. New entrants include state-owned oil companies, financial investors, diversifying service contractors and oil traders. With the growth of specialist stock markets, junior and independent oil companies are better able to raise acquisition finance than ever before, and companies specialising in end-of-life reservoirs are filling the spaces left as oil majors go in search of new opportunities. Transaction types are also diverse and are completed using a variety of different deal structures. As well as providing chapters on each type of acquisition method, this book also includes an analysis of the underlying structuring decisions.In addition, this practical guide covers a number of ancillary areas, including valuations, financing, tax and accounting. Decommissioning liability is also considered in an M&A context. A number of new chapters are also featured, covering topics such as competition law, environmental law and dealing with material adverse changes. This comprehensive new edition will prove an essential resource to anyone involved in the upstream industry M&A process including lawyers, bankers, financiers, business executives, accountants and tax advisers.