Which of the following is a reason companies might choose not to merge?

Companies might choose not to merge for several reasons, including potential management dissatisfaction with media attention. Merging can often place a spotlight on the companies involved, resulting in increased scrutiny from the media. Management teams may feel uncomfortable with the potential backlash or exaggerated coverage of the merger process, including how they are portrayed as leaders. This can lead to concerns about personal reputations, company culture, and employee morale, as management may prioritize stability and control over public relations challenges.

In contrast, expected revenue synergies typically serve as a strong motivation for companies to merge—combining resources can enhance the overall market competitiveness and drive growth. Similarly, the desire for immediate investment banking fees generally reflects a motivation to pursue a merger rather than avoid one, as this could represent a significant financial opportunity for both parties involved. Additionally, a possible increase in company market share usually encourages mergers, as companies look to solidify their position in the market. Thus, these factors create persuasive incentives for merging rather than reasons to avoid it.