Properly conceived and executed mergers and acquisitions (M&As) have the potential to unlock value for a wide range of corporate stakeholders. However, many of these transactions fail to deliver the expected outcomes.

In this fourth edition of Mergers and Acquisitions: A South African overview, the most important factors that contribute to M&A failure are identified. Suggestions are also provided on how to avoid the identified pitfalls in future endeavours.

The book fills an important gap in the academic literature on M&As in South Africa post-2020. Not only is considerable attention given to the strategic objectives prompting business combina- tions and restructurings, but several valuation techniques are also presented to determine the fair value of a target. Numerous case studies are included to highlight the implications. Focus is furthermore placed on the importance of due diligence investigations and post-intergration analyses.

Real-life examples, practical exercises, quick quizzes, multiple choice questions and long questions are included to enhance the reader's understanding of key concepts and calculations.

All four authors are Professors in the Department of Business Management at Stellenbosch University.