Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are strategic transactions used to expand market presence, enter new sectors, acquire capabilities, or consolidate ownership. In Iraq, M&A deals require corporate approvals, regulatory filings, and comprehensive legal and financial due diligence to ensure compliance with Iraqi law and alignment with investor objectives.
Types of Transactions
- Share acquisitions (purchase of shares in an existing entity)
- Asset acquisitions (purchase of discrete business assets or operations)
- Statutory mergers or consolidations
- Corporate transformations (change of legal form to enable M&A)
- Divestitures or carve-outs of business lines
- Group-level restructurings for ownership consolidation
Key Drivers
- Market expansion and competitive positioning
- Vertical or horizontal integration
- Succession planning and ownership transition
- Foreign investor entry into the Iraqi market
- Access to technology, supply chains, or skilled labor
- Private equity and institutional investment activity
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
- Corporate approvals under the Iraqi Companies Law No. 21 of 1997 (as amended)
- Sector-specific approvals for regulated industries (e.g., banking, insurance, telecom, oil & gas)
- Share transfer procedures and updating of shareholder registers
- Tax and social security implications of share or asset transfers
- Employment transfer and labor law compliance where applicable
Due diligence typically covers:
- Corporate governance and ownership
- Regulatory licenses and approvals
- Financial and tax compliance
- Contractual liabilities
- Employment and social security
- Litigation and dispute exposure
How Etihad Can Assist
Etihad provides legal and regulatory advisory services to banks, financial institutions, and businesses, supporting compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and regulatory guidance issued by any competent authorities.