Choose a recent merger / acquisition to write about for this topic paper.  Use the material to analyze the reasons for and against the merger, and to assess the performance of the consolidated company since its completion.

If you are unable to come up with a choice of your own, then you may choose the merger of Hewlett Packard and Compaq Computers from about 10 years ago. When the merger was announced, it was widely criticized as not making 'economic sense.'

The merger continues to be of interest, as the CEO of the merged company, Carly Fiorina, was relieved of her duties shortly after the merger occurred.

Remember to cite any outside references used.