Task 1: You are to critically evaluate the literature on Dividends and Dividend Policy and making reference to current examples from the financial press, assess the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the dividend decision of companies. Come to a conclusion as to whether or not dividend policy has a substantive impact in the creation or destruction of shareholder wealth.
Task 2: You are to come to conclusion, supported by the academic literature, as to the ability of managers to value companies in the context of the global Covid-19 pandemic and to create shareholder value by engaging in merger and acquisition activity. You should make reference to current examples of merger and acquisition activity from the financial press.