Doelbedrijf

Doelbedrijf is a Dutch term used in corporate finance to denote the company that is the subject of a takeover bid, acquisition, or restructuring. In English, the closest equivalents are target company or acquisition target.

Typically the doelbedrijf can be a standalone firm or a subsidiary within a larger corporate group. The acquisition may involve buying all shares in the doelbedrijf, a majority stake, or acquiring its assets and liabilities in an asset deal. The buyer, or offeror, aims to gain control or substantial influence over the operation.

During a transaction, the management and board of the doelbedrijf assess offers, conduct due diligence, and issue recommendations to shareholders. The process can include confidentiality agreements, bidding rounds, and reorganizing the business. Depending on the jurisdiction and deal structure, there may be anti-takeover defenses or arrangements that the target can deploy.

Regulatory considerations may apply, including competition or merger control reviews by authorities. Completion depends on approvals, financing, and fulfillment of conditions in the offer. The term remains common in Dutch-language financial reporting, press coverage, and legal documentation related to M&A.

See also: target company, acquisition, merger, overname, Dutch corporate law.