The anticipation of an acquisition attracts informed trading, which can cause a high run-up in the target stock price prior to an announced acquisition bid. Because research has shown that bidders do not reduce their bid price to compensate for a relatively high run-up, a larger run-up increases...

The increased government efforts to pursue insider trading charges against Galleon Group and the subsequent increase in penalties for violating insider trading laws can deter managers from leaking information and deter investors from capitalizing on leaked information before earnings guidance...