Tuesday, 15 December 2015

Analyzing the Motives of An Exit Strategy

Even those who don't wish to liquidate their enterprises in the foreseeable future can benefit from having an exit plan. Exit strategies allow business owners to pull out of the management of their operations and cash in their interests in the enterprise.

The appropriate exit strategy is largely dependent on the motives behind the exit. Entrepreneurs of a business that is folding may find that closure represents the most graceful exit, a strategy that is difficult to justify otherwise. Selling an enterprise is arguably more difficult, but is generally better suited to enterprises that remain profitable. An enterprise that is large enough can even undergo an initial public offering, but this is rarely considered.

Another consideration in the exit strategy is the future role played by the founder should the business change leadership. Some founding entrepreneurs may want to relinquish executive roles but retain some form of influence, whereas others may want to keep a stake in the business for the sake of cash flow and leave its management to more capable and trusted wards. Finally, an entrepreneur can simply decide on a clean break and leave it to the new individuals in charge.

Image source: businessinsider.com


Aging business owners who wish to retain their enterprises within their families can take steps to prepare an exit plan that details how their business' administration would pass to their heirs upon their retirement or death. This in turn must adequately outline other key details, such as the possibility of receiving revenue through the business as part of a retirement fund.

Generational Equity is a company that assists lower-middle-market enterprises in drafting and executing an exit strategy, valuing businesses and assets, and bringing sellers and buyers together. For more information on the company and its services, visit this website.

Tuesday, 17 November 2015

The Key to Successfully Closing a Deal: Understanding the M&A Process

There are many reasons companies merge with or are acquired by other companies. In the world of corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are considered part of strategic management to achieve synergy, diversification, and growth.

M&A transactions are very common in business. Investment bankers and M&A advisory firms assist middle-market business owners who are contemplating the sale of their business.


Image source: dollar.padugai.com

As a business process, however, selling a company can demand significant time and resources to close successfully. And the steps to effectively culminate a successful transaction are many.

Companies considering being acquired should begin the process with thorough research. As part of their strategic and operational planning, firms need to assess the competitive landscape of their industry. They also need to determine which firms are acquiring and why. Once that is determined, a healthy M&A auction process can begin.

To get the optimal results, it is recommended that business owners hire an M&A advisor to guide them through the process.


Image source: chonburisteel.com

Lastly, when sealing a deal, both parties must agree to a transition plan, which includes key initiatives corresponding to the goals of each firm. The success of an acquisition will ultimately depend on proper planning, which is why it is advisable to hire a consultant for the process.

Generational Equity is a leading middle-market M&A firm in North America. Visit this website to learn more about the company’s services.