Strategic M&A and Financial Advisory Services
Sell Side M&A Advisory
For many private business owners, navigating the M&A landscape is a rare endeavor, often undertaken only once. However, the implications of such transactions are substantial for both shareholders and the Company as a whole. Ascend Capital Advisors’ (“ACA”) mergers and acquisitions practice provides in-depth expertise throughout each stage of the transaction process, from planning to execution. Our team offers strategic advice on a range of complex activities, including carve-outs, shareholder exits, recapitalizations, and forging strategic alliances. Whether a client’s goal is to acquire new assets or realize a full or partial sale, our dedicated approach ensures that they are positioned to capture maximum value while managing potential risks effectively.
As trusted advisors, we leverage the collective experience of ACA and our partners to optimize both the financial terms and value of each transaction, aligning closely with our clients’ objectives on the sell-side. From early-stage preparation to post-merger integration, our team is by your side every step of the way, allowing you to stay focused on managing and growing your business.
How ACA supports you throughout the process:
Valuation Insight: Gain a clear understanding of your firm’s market value
Timing Assessment: Determine if/when you should sell your firm
Ownership Transition Evaluation: Evaluate options to transfer ownership within the firm or explore outside partnership opportunities
Post-Deal Guidance: Establish a comprehensive plan for the business and all employees after the deal
Financial Due Diligence
In complex transactions, having a team that grasps the intricacies of the business, the risks involved, and the time-sensitive nature of due diligence is essential. ACA’s team of experienced professionals brings a powerful combination of analytical, investigative, and financial assessment skills, all aimed at reducing transaction risk. We delve deeper than many firms, providing transparent risk assessments and managing multiple transactions efficiently, even on tight schedules.
For any merger or acquisition, thorough financial due diligence is not only critical for negotiations but also for spotting growth opportunities and establishing post-acquisition strategies. Our due diligence approach goes beyond verifying financial data—it identifies key risks and considerations for the definitive agreement and highlights areas of focus for successful integration. We customize each engagement to fit the unique circumstances of your transaction. This tailored due diligence process helps uncover and evaluate potential risks and issues, enabling you to make informed investment decisions with confidence.
Key Components of ACA’s Due Diligence Services:
Quality of Earnings Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation designed to assess the stability and reliability of a company's earnings, ensuring financial performance is both precise and sustainable
Revenue Testing: Implementation of a tailored testing strategy that provides a comprehensive understanding of revenue streams
Revenue Analysis: In-depth examination of recurring revenue and organic growth to gain insights into the firm's book of business
Working Capital Evaluation: Detailed analysis and presentation of working capital tailored to the proposed deal structure, including the identification of any potential undisclosed liabilities.