Nissan’s attitudes toward risk and emergency response emerged through the company’s experience in overcoming daunting challenges. In 1999 the company faced severe financial difficulties that were only resolved when it formed an alliance with Renault. Under the terms of the alliance, Renault bought 36.8% of Nissan’s outstanding stock and Nissan agreed to buy into Renault when it was financially able to do so. This deal forced Nissan to confront entrenched practices and biases and to take proactive action to ensure the company’s survival and ultimate success.