FBE 560 - Mergers and Acquisitions

Builds on Corporate Finance with an initial focus on technical valuation methodologies (CAPM, DCFs, etc.) and then focuses on more broad lessons (what types of mergers traditionally generate the most value etc.). He has a very dry voice, which can make lectures a bit boring, but ultimately the content is good and I'd recommend to anyone in finance, especially anyone doing sell-side M&A work or corporate development.

I chose to take this class to strengthen my technical understanding of M&A. Professor Hoberg is very thorough, knowledgeable and patient. I would recommend taking Valuations before enrolling in this class if you do not have a solid finance background.

Hoberg is truly an expert in his field and one of the best profs I've had at USC. Hits all areas of M&A and is very lecture heavy (which I prefer over discussion).

Jerry is an expert and can talk about this stuff forever. He does have quite the monotone voice though and some cheesy jokes. This class can get pretty technical so if you did well in core finance, you should be fine here. Definitely challenging but a great class to take if you are generally interested in M&A

This class exceeded my expectations. I'm not the strongest in finance, but my intended strategy work will heavily incorporate M&A analysis. Hoberg explains concepts much better than my professors did during core, plus with an adorable enthusiasm that's chuckleworthy throughout. The readings are a bit dry, but the online discussions add a lot. I feel like I now have a better understanding of some quantitative skills I needed during core, but even better is my new approach to qualitative understanding of synergies between companies.

Just take this class, it's great. excellent even

The class is pretty advanced. This was my first finance elective after core, and felt somewhat overwhelmed by the material. But I think it's a great material to know, especially if you're going into a corporate strategy type role

Hoberg has the most boring voice ever, but he records his classes so you don't have to physically be there. You should have some basic understanding of finance before taking this class (beyond corp fin a+b). I have zero experience/knowledge in finance, and it is way above my capability to actually learn anything in here.

Great content and probably ranks near the top in understanding business valuations. Material is really interesting but class is hard. Lots of case studies. Hoberg can be a bit monotone, but his content and knowledge is really great.

Exactly as advertised. Professor Hoiberg is a bit dry but extremely knowledgeable on the topic and academically challenging for students of all levels of experience in M&A.

Great finance overview that delves into topics learned in Core. Professor Hoberg also brings the class to life with a true joy in students understanding concepts.

"NOTE: I am NOT a Finance/banking person and I still love this class. One of the best classes I've taken at Marshall. While it can get a bit quantitative or technical at times, the class is run really well. Not too much work, but very real-world applicable information. The teacher is kind of nerdy, but in the best possible way. He cracks great jokes and is incredibly knowledgeable and SUPER nice. VERY enjoyable and really great info to learn."

Best elective this semester and best course I've had all year.

Extremely helpful during office hours. His class goes at a decent pace.

First 25% is quant heavy, latter 75% is very case driven.