The benefits of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) include, among others: a diversification of product and service offerings, an increase in plant capacity, larger market share, utilization of operational expertise and research and development (R&D), reduction of financial risk. If a merger goes well, the new company should appreciate in value as investors anticipate synergies to be actualized, creating cost savings and/or increased revenue for the new entity. However, time and again, executives face major stumbling blocks after the deal is consummated.