Ralf Bebenroth, Carolin Lielienthal, Kevin Massmann
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to shed light on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cross-border M&A advisory business in Japan.
Design/methodology/approach
Using the grounded theory approach and trust embedded in network theory, the authors conducted interviews with 12 Japanese senior M&A advisors from 8 different advisory firms, categorizing the results into three general themes.
Findings
The first theme comprises deep insights contributing to a “decrease in M&A deals” during the COVID-19 crisis as not many deals could be advised while several were canceled. The second theme is “time delays,” with ongoing deals taking more time to be completed. The third gen-eral theme concerns the “new normal” after the COVID-19 era, as M&A advisors have learned to cope with their challenges and are subsequently more efficient, especially time-wise, in dealing with clients.
Research limitations/implications
The research was based on qualitative data gathered from only 12 interviewees from 8 different consultancies who were Japanese senior M&A advisors.
Practical implications
The practical implications of this research go beyond the findings of M&A studies conducted during and soon after the COVID-19 pandemic. Consulting firms commonly report on the COVID-19 impact on M&A markets or client firms but are silent about their own hardships in establishing trustful relationships with clients during the COVID-19 pandemic. In contrast, we turn the spotlight on the consulting firms themselves to understand their challenges.
Originality/value
The originality of this research goes beyond previous studies on the economic impact of firms; the authors lay out the foundation for the hardship of establishing trustful relationships between M&A advisors and their clients during the COVID-19 crisis. The three general themes elucidated the impact of the pandemic, highlighting the challenges confronting the Japanese M&A advisory business. These themes thus provide a more nuanced understanding of the COVID-19 impact.
期刊介绍:
Review of International Business and Strategy is keen to present contemporary and innovative research that proposes new perspectives or challenges existing theories, and that advances the understanding of issues related to international business and global strategy. Themes covered by the journal include (but are not limited to): Internationalization of firms and international entrepreneurship Effects of international environment (political, social, economic and institutional) on international business activities and firm strategies Knowledge transfer strategies and innovation in MNEs Location strategies in international business activities.