A white knight is an individual or company that comes to the rescue of a target company facing a hostile takeover. This occurs when a less favorable entity attempts to acquire the target company against its wishes. The white knight typically offers to buy the target company at a better price per share and under more favorable terms, helping to protect it from the unwanted suitor.
The term "white knight" is commonly used in corporate law, particularly in the context of mergers and acquisitions. It plays a significant role in negotiations and can influence the outcomes of hostile takeover attempts. Legal professionals may utilize this concept when advising clients on strategies to fend off unwanted acquisitions. Users can manage related legal documents through platforms like US Legal Forms, which offer templates for agreements and disclosures pertinent to these situations.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A well-known technology firm is facing a hostile takeover by a competitor. A friendly investor steps in as a white knight, offering to purchase the company at a higher price per share than the competitor's bid, thus saving the company from the takeover.
Example 2: A struggling retail chain is approached by a larger corporation looking to acquire it against its will. A private equity firm acts as a white knight, proposing a deal that includes better terms for the chain's employees and shareholders (hypothetical example).
| Term | Definition | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| White Knight | A friendly acquirer that saves a target company from a hostile takeover. | Actively sought by the target company. |
| Hostile Takeover | An acquisition attempt that is resisted by the target company's management. | Involves unwanted bids from an acquirer. |
| Greenmail | A strategy where a target company buys back its stock at a premium to avoid a takeover. | Involves paying off the hostile bidder rather than finding a white knight. |
If you are involved in a situation where your company is facing a hostile takeover, consider seeking out potential white knights who may be interested in acquiring your company under better terms. It may also be beneficial to consult with a legal professional to explore your options. Additionally, you can utilize US Legal Forms to access templates for necessary legal documents to facilitate negotiations or protect your interests.
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
A hostile takeover occurs when an acquirer attempts to buy a target company against the wishes of its management.