Abstract:The success or failure of cross-border technology M&A is increasingly becoming a strategic determinant of corporate development. Based on the theory of merger synergy and using a grounded theory case analysis approach, this paper selects Intel’s technology-driven cross-border M&A case to summarize different types of synergy relationships and mechanisms between the acquiring and acquired companies, and their impact on both parties’ performance. The results indicate that, prior to a cross-border technology merger, establishing three types of synergy relationships—alignment of strategic objectives, moderate industry positioning, and divergence in operational performance—contributes to a mutual enhancement in the performance of both parties. During the process of a cross-border technology merger, mechanisms of technology sharing, resource complementarity, and regulatory circumvention play synergistic roles. Accordingly, multinational enterprises should exercise prudence in selecting M&A targets prior to initiating cross-border technology M&A. They should pay particular attention to maintaining an appropriate gap between the acquirer and target in terms of industry position and performance, prioritizing firms whose competitive strengths are undervalued or whose recent performance has temporarily declined due to short-term operational or environmental factors, yet which retain a leading position within their industry. Such selection criteria help establish a solid foundation for achieving post-acquisition performance synergy. Furthermore, strategies for cross-border technology acquisitions should be tailored to the specific characteristics of the industry involved. In particular, within the technology sector, firms must closely monitor host-country regulations concerning technology transfer restrictions and address shareholders’ concerns regarding intellectual property protection. By establishing mutually beneficial technology-sharing mechanisms, acquirers can effectively mitigate institutional and technological barriers, thereby safeguarding the realization of synergy in cross-border technology acquisitions.