The Difference Between a Merger and an Acquisition

What is the difference between a merger and an acquisition?  The terms “merger” and “acquisition” are common business terms, but they are often inappropriately used interchangeably, when in fact the two transactions are rather different. If you are planning to combine or purchase assets from another company it is imperative that  you understand the benefits and drawbacks of each. Merger In a merger, usually two or more businesses wind down as separate entities, and then a...

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What is a Director’s Duty of Care?

Generally, a corporation’s articles may limit directors’ personal liability for money damages to a corporation or to its shareholders for actions taken or for failure to take action. However, the articles may not eliminate liability for a director’s breach of duties owed to the corporation. For example a corporation’s articles cannot eliminate liability for receiving financial benefits to which the director is not entitled, intentionally inflicting harm on the corporation or its shareholders, unlawful...

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What is a Fiduciary Duty?

A fiduciary relationship is about trust and confidence; it exists where one or more parties are bound to act in good faith toward and for the benefit of one or more other parties.  A fiduciary relationship is often comprised of the duties of care, loyalty, confidentiality, and obedience, i.e., fiduciary duties to the parties in the relationship. Before a person can be charged with a fiduciary obligation, he or she or it must either knowingly undertake...

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