FIN330 Mergers and Acquisitions

Mergers and Acquisitions

Mergers and Acquisitions focuses on the merger and acquisition process in the Australian market. It examines the regulatory environment for mergers and acquisitions in Australia and identifies the relevant shareholding thresholds under the Corporations Act. It also provides an overview of the research phase and role of the corporate adviser.

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Subject overview

STUDY MODE

100% online

AQF LEVEL

NEXT INTAKE

5 May 2025

SUBJECT DURATION

12 weeks

SUBJECT FEE

$2,700.00

This subject focuses on the merger and acquisition process in the Australian market. It examines the regulatory environment for mergers and acquisitions in Australia and identifies the relevant shareholding thresholds under the Corporations Act. It also provides an overview of the research phase and role of the corporate adviser. It compares the different forms of acquisition, including private treaty acquisitions, and discusses the implementation of offeror and defensive strategies. Students apply their understanding of the merger and acquisition process through analysis of a real transaction that occurred in the Australian market in recent years.

This subject contributes to the investment analysis and corporate finance specialisation.

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Subject information

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject individuals should be able to:

Apply the regulatory framework to acquisitions and takeovers
Compare different forms of acquisitions and divestments
Apply valuation methods to mergers and acquisitions
Implement offeror strategies
Implement defensive strategies
Compare methods of structuring and funding the acquisition.

Topics covered

Introduction to mergers and acquisitions
Valuation issues in mergers and acquisitions
Private treaty acquisitions and sales
Regulatory considerations for bidders
Public company activities
Forms of consideration and funding the acquisition
Commercial considerations and strategies for the acquirer
Formal response to a bid
Defensive strategies: Pre-emptive and reactive
The Takeovers Panel

Reading list

There is no prescribed text for this subject. Individuals are provided with key readings and access to Kaplan Professional’s online databases. Individuals are encouraged to research and read widely on the topic.

Assessments

Assessment Type	Assessed	Weighting
Task	Week 4	15%
Assignment 1	Week 7	45%
Assignment 2	Week 12	40%

Click here for an assessment timetable.

Previous study requirements

Duration

The duration of this subject is one study period (12 weeks).

Assumed knowledge

Kaplan Professional assumes that individuals have completed FIN202 Fundamentals of Asset Valuation, FIN203 Fundamentals of Equity Markets and FIN204 Fundamentals of Risk or understand the content covered in those subjects, prior to undertaking FIN330 Mergers and Acquisitions.

Course transition subject equivalence

Individuals may not be required to complete this subject if they have transitioned from a SIA/Finsia/Kaplan course and have completed the following subjects: