Merrill lynch merger into bank of america

Read the case, “Bank of America’s Acquisition of Merrill Lynch” on page 702-718. Use the case analysis format provided below to address to identify the problems and provide several suggested solutions that the Bank of America executive team can review for possible implementation.

Be sure to identify "identify 2 to 3 problems" and "develop 2 to 3 possible solutions to the problems identified", and use this as the focus for making your case in the case format. Note: The case questions provided at the end of each case can be used as an insight to what the problems might be; so be sure to investigate the case carefully.

Case Format

I. Write the Executive Summary

One to two paragraphs in length
On cover page of the report
Briefly identify the major problems facing the manager/key person
Summarize the recommended plan of action and include a brief justification of the recommended plan

II. Statement of the Problem

State the problems facing the manager/key person
Identify and link the symptoms and root causes of the problems
Differentiate short term from long term problems
Conclude with the decision facing the manager/key person

III. Causes of the Problem

Provide a detailed analysis of the problems; identify in the Statement of the Problem
In the analysis, apply theories and models from the text and/or readings
Support conclusions and /or assumptions with specific references to the case and/or the readings

IV. Decision Criteria and Alternative Solutions

Identify criteria against which you evaluate alternative solutions (i.e. time for implementation, tangible costs, acceptability to management)
Include two or three possible alternative solutions
Evaluate the pros and cons of each alternative against the criteria listed
Suggest additional pros/cons if appropriate