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Inside the Deal: Cravath's Jim Woolery on private bear hug h — MarketVault
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Inside the Deal: Cravath's Jim Woolery on private bear hug h

2000s2009youtube

All-time low valuations and fewer defenses against unsolicited bids will lead to more hostile deals in 2009. But according to Jim Woolery, a partner with Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP, much of that activity will take place outside of the public arena. In this edition of Inside the Deal, Woolery tells Suzanne Stevens that an uptick in stock deals will result in more private bear hug hostile transactions, in which a seller is approached privately with an unsolicited offer designed to force the target to engage. See the video below or download it at iTunes.

Added 31 Mar 2026



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About This Footage

The 2009 financial landscape was marked by unprecedented challenges and opportunities for corporate deal-making. Amidst the economic downturn, valuations plummeted to all-time lows, creating a fertile ground for hostile takeovers. It is against this backdrop that Jim Woolery, a seasoned partner with Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP, shares his insights on the emerging trend of private bear hug hostile transactions.

The clip, recorded in 2009, offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of an expert who navigated the complexities of corporate finance during one of its most tumultuous periods. Woolery's comments provide valuable context for understanding the motivations and strategies employed by companies seeking to acquire or merge with others in a depressed market.

One of the key takeaways from this footage is the increasing prevalence of private bear hug hostile transactions. According to Woolery, these deals involve an unsolicited offer made directly to the target company's management or board, often bypassing public disclosure and regulatory scrutiny. This approach allows acquirers to exert pressure on their targets without exposing themselves to the risks associated with a public bid.

Woolery's assertion that "much of that activity will take place outside of the public arena" highlights the growing importance of private transactions in corporate finance. As companies sought to navigate the treacherous waters of 2009, they increasingly turned to private equity and other forms of alternative financing. This trend reflects a broader shift towards more flexible and adaptable approaches to deal-making.

The expert's comments also shed light on the role of stock deals in driving private bear hug hostile transactions. Woolery notes that an uptick in stock deals will result in more private bear hug hostile activity, as companies seek to capitalize on undervalued assets and distressed situations. This dynamic underscores the critical importance of stock prices in facilitating corporate deal-making.

The footage is notable not only for its insights into the 2009 financial landscape but also for providing a window into the thinking of an experienced practitioner like Jim Woolery. As a partner with Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP, one of the world's premier law firms, Woolery brings a unique perspective to the discussion of corporate finance and deal-making.

Overall, this clip offers a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of corporate finance during times of economic stress. The expert's comments provide a nuanced and informed analysis of the trends and strategies shaping the market, making it an essential addition to any library of financial knowledge.

Editorial context researched and compiled from verified sources.

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