Green ushers in a 1980s revival

Complex hostile bids set the tone for a lively year in the M&A market

This year's abortive £9bn (€13bn) bid by Philip Green, the billionaire entrepreneur, for UK retailer Marks & Spencer typified a new approach to hostile dealmaking.

Superficially, it bore all the hallmarks of a classic 1980s set-to. Green had a dust-up in the street with Marks & Spencer's chief executive, Stuart Rose, who in turn was investigated and cleared by the Financial Services Authority, the UK regulator, on allegations of insider dealing.

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Ray Dalio Sells Last Stake in Bridgewater, the Hedge Fund That Made Him a BillionaireExternal link

Ray Dalio Sells Last Stake in Bridgewater, the Hedge Fund That Made Him a Billionaire