1. Explain the rationale behind the idea that equity is a call option on a firm's assets. In other words, explain why equity ownership of a firm is equivalent to owning a call option on the firm’s assets. Next, explain what it would mean for shareholders to allow this call option to expire, and under what circumstances shareholders would do so.
2. Defensive merger tactics are designed to thwart takeovers and mergers. Briefly describe a few examples of such tactics. Do such activities work to the advantage of shareholders all of the time? Who do you think benefits the most from these activities? Are these types of activities ethical? Briefly discuss the above questions.