Theory and Evidence on Mergers and Acquisitions by Small and Medium Enterprises

Utz Weitzel and Killian McCarthy

No 09-21, Working Papers from Utrecht School of Economics

Abstract: The theory of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) has been developed almost exclusively from the study of large deals by large firms. In this paper we argue that the behaviour and success of M&As by small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) may be significantly different. Accordingly, we revisit established M&A theories, and develop a theoretical framework, and several testable hypotheses, regarding the distinctive features of SME M&As. Our empirical results support our expectations and show that, compared to large firms, acquiring SMEs: rely more intensively on external growth via M&As; are more likely to be withdrawn, suggesting that SMEs are more flexible, and more able to avoid deals that turn sour; and, finally, SME M&As are more likely to be financed with equity rather than debt, indicating that the influential financial pecking order theory is of less relevance to SMEs.

Keywords: mergers; acquisitions; small and medium sized enterprises (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2009-08
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-com and nep-ent
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (4)

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Related works:
Journal Article: Theory and evidence on mergers and acquisitions by small and medium enterprises (2011)
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