the best way to build shareholder value is to acquire businesses with strong cross-business financial fit. the best companies to acquire are those that offer the greatest economies of scope rather than the greatest economies of scale. any company or business that can be acquired on good financial terms and that has satisfactory growth and earnings potential represents a good acquisition and a good business opportunity. the task of building shareholder value is best served by diversifying into businesses with the greatest competitive advantage potential. the least risky way to diversify is to seek out businesses that are leaders in their respective industry and have very appealing market opportunities