Entrepreneurial Knowledge, Technology and the Transformation of Regions

9 The M&A exit from science-based firms

Mattia Cattaneo, Michele Meoli, Stefano Paleari and Silvio Vismara

 

Abstract

This chapter investigates the valuation and M&A dynamics of the population of 254 biotech firms that went public in Europe over the last two decades. Among these, we identify a high proportion (40 per cent) of firms affiliated with a university or another public research organization. After controlling for intellectual capital and other possible determinants, we find that the affiliation with a university is recognized as beneficial by investors and enhances the propensity of being targeted in subsequent M&A deals. Our message is that IPOs and acquisitions by incumbent firms are mechanisms to complete the technology transfer process ...