Exit Planning

Four Questions Business Owners Should Ask Themselves Before a Liquidity Event

How will the transition change my day-to-day life? Owner-operators know a transaction will change their daily routines, but the change can take a variety of forms. If the transaction involves a passive investor or partnering with a family office, their daily activities may remain largely unchanged. However, a strategic acquirer or financial investor might bring… Continue reading Four Questions Business Owners Should Ask Themselves Before a Liquidity Event

Exit Planning

Feeling Uneasy? You’re Not Alone—and Not Without a Path Forward

If you’re feeling a bit uneasy about the markets right now, you're far from alone. The headlines are unsettling, the data can feel overwhelming, and the future—economically and otherwise—feels uncertain. It’s a lot to process. During times like these, I often find a helpful perspective by looking to history. Market crises—no matter how severe—have always… Continue reading Feeling Uneasy? You’re Not Alone—and Not Without a Path Forward

business, Exit Planning

Cash Flow Normalization

Cash flow normalization is done with the intention of identifying Earnings Before Interest Taxes Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) or Seller’s Discretionary Earnings (SDE). These differing measures are not interchangeable but are used by different classes of buyers for different categories of acquisition. Free cash flow is an important measure when calculating the value and price for any business. It is the amount theoretically available for servicing acquisition debt, working capital, return on investment for any cash outlay in the acquisition, and future expansion.

Exit Planning

Navigating Family Dynamics in Business Succession

Passing a family business to the next generation often brings emotional and relational challenges. Balancing personal relationships with professional responsibilities requires tact, clear communication, and often, external support. Common Challenges Conflicting Expectations: Different family members may have varying visions for the business’s future. Role Clarity: Undefined roles can lead to confusion and resentment. Emotional Attachments:… Continue reading Navigating Family Dynamics in Business Succession