What is characterized as a step acquisition?

A step acquisition is characterized by the gradual increase of ownership interests in a company. This concept is particularly relevant when an investor or parent company acquires a controlling interest in a subsidiary over several transactions rather than in a single purchase.

In such cases, the acquirer may start with a small percentage of ownership and then incrementally purchase more shares until reaching the threshold of control, typically defined as owning more than 50% of the voting rights. This approach allows the acquirer to assess the performance and integration of the subsidiary before committing to a larger investment.

The other options do not accurately define a step acquisition. A complete sale of subsidiary shares refers to divesting an entire investment, while a merger involves the combining of two companies into one entity, and a complete enumeration of financial assets does not pertain to the acquisition of ownership interests in a company. Thus, the definition of a step acquisition aligns specifically with the concept of gradually increasing ownership.