Document Type
Article
Publication Date
12-21-2015
Publisher
Wiley
Abstract
In this paper, we examine how the geographic location of firms affects acquisition decisions and value creation for acquirers in takeover transactions. We find that firms located in an urban area are more likely to receive a takeover bid and complete a takeover transaction as a target than firms located in rural areas, and takeover deals involving an urban target are associated with higher acquirer announcement returns, after controlling for the proximity between the target and the acquirer. In addition, a target's urban location significantly attenuates the negative effect of a long distance between the target and the acquirer on acquirer returns, a fact that is documented in the existing literature. Our findings reveal a previously underexplored force—firm location—that can affect takeover transactions, in addition to proximity. Our paper suggests that a firm's location plays an important role in facilitating the dissemination of soft information and enhancing information-based synergies.
Recommended Citation
Cai, Y., Tian, X., & Xia, H. (2016). Location, Proximity, and M&A Transactions. Journal of Economics & Management Strategy, 25(3), 688–719.
Comments
This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: Cai, Y., Tian, X., & Xia, H. (2016). Location, Proximity, and M&A Transactions. Journal of Economics & Management Strategy, 25(3), 688–719, which has been published in final form at https://doi.org/10.1111/jems.12159. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance With Wiley Terms and Conditions for self-archiving.