Effects of Technological Change on Acquisition Behavior: An Empirical Analysis of Electronic Design Automation

摘要

This paper contains an empirical analysis of acquisition dynamics in the electronic design automation (EDA) industry. Using qualitative and quantitative data, we show that particular groups of EDA firms strongly contribute to acquisition activity in the industry at specific times. Based on this we provide empirical evidence that specialized firms pursue focused and 'defensive' acquisitions during times of uncertainty, indicating that concentration on existing competencies is preferred over diversification into promising new, but unfamiliar markets.