> While a tedious process, we built a close working relationship and shared their enthusiasm about our future together. On December 11th, they called me and sta

> While a tedious process, we built a close working relationship and shared their enthusiasm about our future together. On December 11th, they called me and stated they would not complete the acquisition nor revisit the investment proposal. I was stunned. The reason is still not understood. That's the problem if your CEO is an inventor with no or little business acumen. They are always super-enthusiastic and can be played like puppets by some M&A guys with mediocre experience. Memo: Don't be enthusiastic with "acquirers", restraint enthusiasm is the keyword. Screen them vs. them screen you. Memo2: Deals are made to fall trough - Paul Graham. Never bid everything on one horse, don't put all your eggs in one basket etc. 9 out of 10 deals like this fall through, adjust accordingly.