This text combines two elements: a description of the newly regulated German law relating to the public takeover of listed companies in 2002, and English translations of the German Securities Acquisition and Takeover Act of 1 January 2002 and of other relevant statutory texts. The book introduces the reader to the legal framework of public takeovers in Germany. It first explains the peculiarities of the German stock corporation, essentially the only company form capable of being publicly traded. Secondly, the rules of the Securities Acquisition and Takeover Act are described to give an overview over the densely regulated takeover procedures. Thirdly, this book addresses important post-takeover issues, such as the restructuring measures that may be taken after an offer has been successfully completed, including the newly introduced squeeze-out. The translations of the relevant German laws, in particular the Securities Acquisition and Takeover Act and the regulations promulgated thereunder, substantial portions of the Stock Corporation Act and other statutory materials relevant in public takeover situations are arranged synoptically. Together with the introduction, these texts should assist strategic and financial investors, their investment bankers, lawyers and other advisors to better understand the German law relating to the public takeover of listed companies.