We propose a novel Markov regime-switching Poisson regression model with time-varying transition distributions to test existing theories on determinants of wave-like patterns in same-industry merger and acquisitions (M&As). We show that the dynamics and persistence of merger waves change...

Previous work on exit in declining industries has neglected mergers. We examine a simple model that predicts which declining industries experience horizontal mergers. Mergers are more likely if 1) market concentration is high; 2) the inverse demand curve is steep at high levels of output and...

Technological change is often hypothesized as one of the main drivers of merger activities. This paper analyzes the role of technology in mergers and acquisitions (M&As) at the firm level. Based on a newly created data set that combines financial information and patent data for public limited...

We provide a model and empirical tests showing how an active acquisition market affects firm incentives to innovate and conduct R&D. Our model shows that small firms optimally may decide to innovate more when they can sell out to larger firms. Large firms may find it disadvantageous to engage in...

Using a unique data set tracking inventors' careers around mergers and acquisitions (M&As) over the period 19812012, we first show a steep increase postmerger in the frequency of collaboration between acquirer and target inventors, and that such collaboration is associated with more radical,...

Do horizontal mergers shape the way an industry evolves? I answer this question by investigating the non-merging rivals’ investments. Based on the stylized fact that the rivals’ performance on average declines in the three years following horizontal mergers, I find the rivals become more...

This paper provides both theoretical perspectives and empirical evidence on the relationship between mergers and acquisitions (M&As) and corporate innovation. It also identifies relevant policies implemented by countries around the world to encourage corporate innovation activities, and...

We examine the relation between patent thickets and acquisitions. Patent thickets are dense webs of overlapping intellectual property rights that create costs by complicating licensing negotiations and increasing the risk of holdup and litigation. We find that firms are less likely to be...

We investigate the incentive and the welfare implications of a merger when heterogeneous oligopolists compete both in process R&D and on the product market. We examine how a merger affects the output, investment, and profits of firms, whether firms have merger incentives, and, if so, whether...