The acquisition game -- Am I a prepared acquirer? -- Does it make sense? -- How much do I need? -- Will they have reason to cheer? -- How will I deliver on my vision and promises?, part I -- How will I deliver on my vision and promises?, part II -- Will my dreams become reality? -- Can the board...

When a major acquisition is announced, investors try to understand where the value is going to come from and whether the acquirer has a plan to achieve that value. Deals are often brought to market with one big synergy number and a statement that the deal will be accretive to earnings. The...