Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) refer to the processes where companies combine or one company purchases another. A merger occurs when two companies agree to join forces to create a new entity, while an acquisition happens when one company buys another outright. These strategies are often used to enhance market share, expand product offerings, or achieve economies of scale. M&A activities can involve various industries and can be driven by different motivations, such as increasing competitiveness or entering new markets. The process typically includes negotiations, due diligence, and regulatory approvals to ensure compliance with laws and regulations governing business transactions.