In a merger, two companies come together to become one. The shareholders of the merging companies often become joint owners of the combined entity.

when two companies form one entity and share assets, clients, debts etc.

Where Companies combine by agreement - as opposed to a 'Takeover' when one company assimilates another. The Companies join assets, liabilities & sales, etc. forming one Company.

Combination of two or more companies, where the amount paid over and above the acquired company's book value is carried on the books of the purchaser as goodwill; or a consolidation, where a new company is formed to acquire the net assets of the combining companies. Where an acquisition takes place by the purchase of assets or stock using cash or a debt instrument for payment, the merger is a taxable capital gain to the selling company or its stockholders.

Involve the combination of separately owned retail firms.