INDUSTRY CONSOLIDATORS -- Economy Ends M&A Frenzy

PI: Does the current condition of the economy make shareholders weary of consolidation moves right now?

Norton: The current uncertainty in the economy should concern every business person, including consolidators and their shareholders.

Jensen: Shareholders are always looking for an economic opportunity, regardless of the state of the economy. To the extent a consolidation makes economic sense, and assuming the availability of equity and debt financing, consolidation will continue at some level.