What defines the term 'merger'?

The term 'merger' is defined as the combination of two companies to form a new entity. This process typically involves the two companies ceasing to operate independently and consolidating their assets, liabilities, and operations into a single organization. Mergers can occur for various reasons, including seeking greater market share, achieving operational efficiencies, or enhancing competitive advantage in a particular industry.

In a merger, both companies usually agree to come together to create a new business structure, which may involve rebranding and a new management team that reflects a blend of both original companies. This contrasts with an acquisition, where one company buys another and continues to operate as a separate entity, often under its own brand or name. The other options describe different business processes or situations; for example, a partnership for a specific project is a collaborative arrangement rather than a full merger, and the dissolution of a corporation signifies the end of a company's existence rather than the joining of two to create a new one.