5 Stocks That Are Toxic Takeover Targets

Research in Motion Ltd. (NASDAQ:RIMM) has been the subject of much merger talk. There has been oodles of speculation about a potential merger between RIM and Nokia Corp. (NYSE:NOK). Pundits are arguing that the two companies would do better working together to find the success in the smartphone market that has eluded them both. They both have a tough road ahead. Data released by comScore in April showed that Google (NASDASQ:GOOG) and its Android mobile OS gained 7 points of marketshare during the previous three months, while RIM’s share fell almost 5 points. Apple’s share was little changed. Meanwhile, Nokia’s marketshare has plunged back to 1997 levels. Rumors that Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:MSFT) would acquire Nokia’s headset business were dashed earlier this month. Besides, Nokia already agreed to use Microsoft’s mobile OS in its phones, so what would be the point. A RIM-Nokia merger has the feel of a shotgun wedding.