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Governance or collusion? The M&A effects of common institutional ownership

Author

Listed:
  • Fangfang Zhou

    (Southeast University)

  • Lianghua Chen

    (Southeast University)

  • Libin Zhao

    (Wuhan Textile University)

  • Xiangfei Fu

    (Nanjing Audit University)

Abstract

This study examines the impact of common institutional ownership on corporate mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within China’s emerging market. The findings suggest that, while common institutional ownership decreases the likelihood of M&A, it positively influences the merger announcement effect and merger performance. The heterogeneity analysis reveals that long-term and independent institutional investors play a more significant role in facilitating effective M&A. The mechanism analysis identifies two primary channels through which common institutional ownership exerts its influence: first, by leveraging acquisition experience and informational advantages to mitigate information asymmetry; second, by appointing directors and curbing managerial opportunism to strengthen corporate governance. These findings provide novel empirical evidence regarding the dual role of common institutional ownership in M&A, enriching the literature on its economic impact in emerging markets. Furthermore, they offer valuable insights for advancing well-structured M&A practices and refining capital market regulations.

Suggested Citation

  • Fangfang Zhou & Lianghua Chen & Libin Zhao & Xiangfei Fu, 2025. "Governance or collusion? The M&A effects of common institutional ownership," Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 12(1), pages 1-12, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:palcom:v:12:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1057_s41599-025-05276-y
    DOI: 10.1057/s41599-025-05276-y
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