Which area is involved in the selection, pricing, and negotiation of prices during mergers and acquisitions?

The correct answer is grounded in the understanding of the M&A process, particularly in how companies identify potential acquisition targets and assess their compatibility. The search, assess, and match processes encompass the critical activities where firms identify suitable candidates for mergers or acquisitions. This phase involves an extensive analysis of the market to find targets that align with the strategic goals of the acquirer.

During this phase, potential acquisitions are evaluated based on various criteria, such as financial performance, market position, and cultural fit, leading to informed decisions regarding selection. The pricing aspect also comes into play here as potential targets are valued based on their financial metrics, future growth prospects, and synergies that could be realized post-acquisition. Negotiation of prices hinges on the outcomes of these assessments, ensuring that the acquiring firm conducts due diligence and arrives at a fair valuation before moving on to the execution phase.

In contrast, the other options represent different stages or focuses in the M&A process. Integration occurs after a deal is finalized, focusing on melding company cultures and operations. Execution and closing relate to finalizing the transaction and legalities. Lastly, defining goals and developing a strategy happens before the search and assessment phase. Therefore, the choice highlighting the search, assess, and match processes directly relates