Core Insights - The article highlights that the number of IPOs in A-shares for 2024 is only 100, marking the lowest in a decade, prompting many companies to shift towards mergers and acquisitions (M&A) as a means to enter the capital market [1]. Summary by Sections - **M&A Trends**: The tightening of IPOs and frequent M&A policies have led to an increase in companies considering M&A as an alternative to going public [1]. - **Practical Guide**: A new manual titled "Corporate M&A Practical Handbook" has been launched to assist in understanding M&A operations [1][4]. - **Content Overview**: The handbook consists of 342 pages and covers 11 chapters, detailing operational points and common issues from the perspectives of buyers, sellers, and intermediaries [4]. - **Key Considerations**: The first chapter emphasizes the importance of communication and understanding between buyers and sellers to avoid failures in M&A [11]. - **Financial Viability**: Buyers must assess the financial viability of sellers before engaging in M&A, as certain industries may have inherent challenges in achieving financial compliance [12]. - **Government Support**: Local government policies may provide financial support for M&A activities, which should be considered by both buyers and sellers [14]. - **M&A Structure**: The handbook outlines essential elements for designing M&A plans, including acquisition ratios, operational timelines, and performance guarantees [18]. - **Valuation Methods**: It discusses four common pricing methods and three evaluation methods, along with considerations for performance guarantees [19]. - **Payment Methods**: The fifth chapter focuses on payment methods and financing arrangements, detailing the pros and cons of various payment options [23]. - **Negotiation Strategies**: The sixth chapter provides insights into negotiation tactics, emphasizing the importance of preparation and strategy during negotiations [25]. - **Public Company M&A**: The ninth chapter elaborates on the operational logic of public company acquisitions, including various acquisition methods and their respective considerations [27]. - **Integration Strategies**: The final chapter shares practical experiences and strategies for integrating acquired companies, focusing on team collaboration and resource sharing [30].