What does a merger involve?

A merger involves the combination of two or more companies into a single entity, thereby typically enhancing their market strength, resources, and operational capabilities. This process generally involves the transfer of assets, liabilities, and equity from the merging companies, consolidating their operations in pursuit of efficiencies and increased competitiveness.

The nature of a merger is fundamentally about integration and unification, rather than merely acquiring another company, which would be more aligned with an acquisition rather than a merger. Also, forming a partnership pertains to a different legal structure than a merger, as partnerships involve shared ownership among distinct entities without forming a single new corporation. Lastly, creating a new subsidiary is a different corporate strategy that involves a parent company establishing a separate legal entity under its control, which differs from the consolidation of companies in a merger. Thus, the answer correctly reflects the essence and mechanics of what a merger entails.