One trend that I find especially interesting is the increase in hostile takeover bids this year.

You would think that in a soft stock market, companies would be receptive to “friendly” deals. After all, most acquiring firms pay a sizeable premium above the current stock price of the firm being bought.

Even Rich Peterson at Thompson Financial is stumped by this surge in unsolicited takeovers. He theorizes that companies may be desperate to boost earnings and market share in the slowing economy. Acquisitions are often a quick way to do that -- so buyers may willing to force the issue.

Others think the rise in hostile deals may be a function of the weak stock market because it means cheaper prices for buyout targets. Acquisition targets, on the other hand, may believe their stock is likely to rebound in coming months. So they may be hesitant to do deals at current levels.

A third theory is that hostile deals may be a reflection of the increase in shareholder activism -- as a way to force out ineffective managers.

Any other possibilities? How do you feel about the possible rise in corporate deal making?