Tag: red bucket items

Deal Changer or Deal Breaker? Assessing Risk in Due Diligence

During formal due diligence, which typically begins after signing the letter of intent, you gain access to in-depth information and begin taking a closer look at the acquisition target. Traditionally the primary purpose of this stage of the M&A is to identify significant risks that could impact the terms of the deal or put it …

Continue reading

Due Diligence: When Do You Call Off the Deal?

Cultural due diligence is a critical task in the acquisition process. It exposes hidden problems and risks, but also may identify opportunities. However, if you do uncover red flags, you may need to reevaluate the deal. Sometimes you must simply call it off.  We have walked away from a transaction when due diligence revealed a …

Continue reading

Due Diligence: The Three Buckets of Critical Information

In performing due diligence, I recommend you look not only for risks but also for opportunities. That’s how I approach due diligence for our Capstone clients.  As we examine the seller’s operations and books, we place every new discovery in one of three color-coded “buckets:” Red Bucket: Deal Changers. This is information that materially alters …

Continue reading

5 Approaches to Risks Identified Through Due Diligence

During due diligence, you may uncover deal-changing issues, or what I like to call “red bucket items.” Identifying these risks doesn’t necessarily mean you walk away from a deal, but you will need to negotiate new terms with the seller. Among the ways to protect yourself as the buyer when you find major issues: 1. …

Continue reading