M&A is a multi-trillion dollar industry. It involves managerial finesse, financial decision-making (including accounting and economics) and legal issues.

The recent Office Depot and Staples merger/acquisitiondidnthappen.

1. Was it a merger or an acquisition?
2. How much money was involved?
3. Was it friendly or hostile?
4. Would it probably reduce prices due to economies of scale or raise prices due to their combined size and reduced competition?
5. Why did the two companies think the merger was a good financial decision?
6. What happened to the price of Office Depots stock and Staples' stock as a result of decision?
7. Who gains and who loses as a result of the decision.
8. What do you think would have beenthe bestoutcome of this proposed merger (allow or or don't allow it) and why?

Answer the questions in less than 200 words