antitakeover statute
Antitakeover Statute
A law at the state level prohibiting hostile takeovers in certain circumstances. Different states have different antitakeover statutes, but most involve some way of limiting a potential acquirer's ability to take a bid directly to shareholders. Critics contend that these laws can work against shareholder interest, while proponents maintain that they promote stability in publicly-traded companies. Antitakeover statutes can only apply to companies registered in states having such laws.
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antitakeover statute
A state law that makes it easier for a firm based in that state to fend off a takeover hostile to the firm's management. Such a statute may actually penalize shareholders since acquisition-minded firms or individuals may be less likely to make an offer for the firm's stock.
Wall Street Words: An A to Z Guide to Investment Terms for Today's Investor by David L. Scott. Copyright © 2003 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. All rights reserved.