Facilitator Guide

Introduction to M&A Transactions (UK)

Facilitator Guide

Introduction to M&A Transactions (UK)

Topic: M&A Basics (UK)

What’s covered

Why companies do M&A
Private M&A overview
Financing
UK Regulatory clearances
Cross-border challenges
Public M&A overview
Key differences between private and public M&A

Before the session

Prepare the Attendees

Send the attendees an invitation for the session. Include this link, which has the videos and exercise they’ll need to prepare.

https://www.hotshotlegal.com/discussions/introduction-to-m-a-transactions-uk/attendee

Prepare Yourself

Watch the videos and read the exercise so you’re familiar with the Hotshot material.

Course

Introduction to M&A Transactions (UK)

The fundamentals of UK M&A transactions, covering deal structures, transaction processes, core documents, and the commercial factors that shape deal execution. The course focuses on private deals but also gives an overview of public takeovers to highlight key differences.
Exercise
PDF

During the session

Part 1: Knowledge Check

Ask attendees these questions to ensure they understand the topic:

What are some of the main reasons companies choose to acquire or sell?
How do share sales and asset sales differ in structure and effect?
In broad terms, what steps does a private M&A deal typically involve from start to finish?
What are some additional complexities that might arise in a cross-border transaction?
What are the differences between a recommended offer and a hostile takeover?
What are some differences between public and private M&A?

Part 2: Group Exercise

Lead a group discussion based on the exercise. To encourage collaboration, divide the attendees into groups to discuss the exercise, then have a representative from each group summarise their views to the larger group. Call on people to share their thoughts and ask others to respond.

Tip for remote sessions: use your web conferencing system’s breakout room feature to divide people into groups.

Part 3: War Stories and Firm Specifics

Share your own experiences and guidance, including:

Anecdotes and war stories (e.g., about a near-disaster or a tough negotiation)
General practice tips (dos and don’ts)
Firm-specific guidance and practices

After the session

To continue their learning, attendees can check out related courses in Hotshot’s M&A Basics (UK) topic.

About Hotshot

Hotshot helps lawyers develop their legal, business, and technology skills through short videos, quizzes, and summaries, and we help law firms and law schools plan and deliver engaging training programs. Our customers include Am Law 200 firms, top law schools, and regional and international firms.