Publications
Publications
- March 1988 (Revised July 1990)
- HBS Case Collection
Walt Disney Productions: Greenmail
Abstract
Considers a firm whose investment strategies have essentially run out. Walt Disney's original visions and goals have all been fulfilled and after his death no new ones are forthcoming. Disney faces repeated takeover attacks and is forced to either set new corporate goals and formulate a financing strategy or to slowly liquidate the firm's remaining value through expensive merger defenses. The case concentrates on the use of greenmail, a much criticized defensive tactic which Disney uses trying to buy enough time to fix its investment and financial strategies. The firm's independence is retained and value is enhanced although current management is replaced.
Keywords
Corporate Strategy; Crisis Management; Acquisition; Financial Strategy; Entertainment and Recreation Industry; United States
Citation
Asquith, K. Paul. "Walt Disney Productions: Greenmail." Harvard Business School Case 288-045, March 1988. (Revised July 1990.)