’Tis the Season for Serious Dealmaking —Michelson

Likewise, legal disputes resulting from an M&A transaction can draw the disfavor of Wall Street. Valassis Communications saw its stock price plummet after trying to back out of its July announced acquisition of ADVO, accusing ADVO execs of fraud and financial misrepresentation. Culminating in a trial in Delaware Chancery Court last month, the two sides ultimately agreed to complete the merger, with Valassis reportedly now paying $1.2 billion or $33 per share, an 11 percent discount over the previously agreed upon price of $1.3 billion or $37 per share.