Crown Jewels The most valuable unit(s) of a corporation, as defined by characteristics such as profitability, asset value and future prospects. The origins of this term are derived from the most valuable and important treasures that sovereigns possessed. Investopedia Says: Despite the fact that crown jewels are often the most valuable part of a company, some companies opt to use their crown jewels as part of a takeover defense. A company can employ this crown jewels defense by creating anti-takeover clauses which compels the sale of their crown jewels if a hostile takeover occurs. This deters would be acquirers from attempting to take the firm over. Related Terms: Black Knight Dawn Raid Gray Knight Hostile Takeover Mergers And Acquisitions - M&A Sleeping Beauty Takeover War Chest White Knight Yellow Knight |