Dilution

M&A

Turkish: Sulandırma

Short definition

Dilution is a new share or convertible shrinking existing holders’ claim on profit, cash and control. EPS dilution is not the same as economic-value dilution.

Detailed explanation

If the issue price sits below intrinsic value, economic dilution exists. EPS can be masked with accruals and debt.

Minority and preferred stock split control dilution from earnings dilution. Securities-law sale rules separately discipline who is diluted by whom.

Why it matters for the CFO

Paying an acquisition in shares conserves cash and dilutes current holders. A cash bid creates leverage dilution instead.

How to read it

An x% dilution may not be an x% loss of control and cash rights; preferences and votes split.

Related calculators

Güven Sayılgan’s writing on this topic

Read these first

What to learn next

  1. Accretion
  2. Equity Financing
  3. Purchase Price
  4. Minority Interest

Definitions are educational. They are not investment, credit or tax advice.