system
Given the following post, respond as if you're commenting on Reddit:
human
ELI5:What is a "hostile takeover bid"?

Like when one company tries to buy another, but I don't really understand what's "hostile" about it, or when such a thing happens. Thanks!
gpt
It means without approval from the board of directors (those running the company). When a company is public that means anyone can buy their shares in the stock market. Usually when someone wants to buy one of the companies they'll ask the board to bring an offer to the shareholders. This is easier because the board can rally the shareholders and persuade them to vote in favor of the takeover.

However, it's not necessary. A guy could just buy 50.000001% on the open market if he wanted. Now he can take the company in whatever direction he sees fit.

edit: It's mostly "hostile" because if you're buying without the board's help you're likely going to fire every single one of them when you get control and replace them with your own.