1. What factors do you believe are most likely to impact senior management’s selection of one strategy (e.g., solo venture, M&A) to increase shareholder value over the alternatives? Be specific.

2. In your opinion, how might the conditions of the business (e.g., profitability) and the economy affect the choice the strategy?

3. Discuss whether you believe current conditions in the U.S. and global markets are conducive to high levels of M&A activity? Be specific.

4. Of the factors potentially contributing to current conditions, which do you consider most important and why?