The mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market got a boost in November when BHP Billiton, a mining giant, made a $140 billion offer for its rival Rio Tinto, a bid that is fast becoming hostile.

• 11月份，当必和必拓（矿业巨头）向对手力拓发出价值1400亿美元的并购要约（这份要约很快变成敌意收购）之后，并购市场一片欣欣向荣。