This article presents the results of an extensive study on cross-border/international acquisitions of European multinationals in the period 1976–2000. The most common motives for cross-border acquisitions are market entry, increase in scale and economies of skills. There is a manifest preference for the United States of America. As yet, the influence of the (integrated) European Union is barely noticed. Two important preconditions for cross-border acquisitions are a unique competence that makes a company stand out from the competition and deep financial pockets.
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