Here's an interesting aspect of the deal that I hadn't read before. From the Wall Stree Journal:
"In addition to its option to purchase Bear's headquarters building, J.P. Morgan has the option to purchase just under 20% of Bear Stearns's shares at a price of $2 each. That feature gives J.P. Morgan an ability to largely block a rival offer, says a person with knowledge of the contract."
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120580966534444395.html?mod=hps_us_whats_news
"In addition to its option to purchase Bear's headquarters building, J.P. Morgan has the option to purchase just under 20% of Bear Stearns's shares at a price of $2 each. That feature gives J.P. Morgan an ability to largely block a rival offer, says a person with knowledge of the contract."
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120580966534444395.html?mod=hps_us_whats_news