The Accountant's Role in Mergers and Acquisitions

Description

Review issues professionals encounter in assisting clients who are selling or buying mid-size companies. Examine the accountant advisor's essential role in drafting and structuring purchase-price adjustment mechanisms, due diligence and accounting for transactions.

Review considerations such as buyer/seller perspectives and preferences, letters of intent, significant components of definitive purchase agreements, and the high-level tax considerations of buyers/sellers—including the implications of Section 338(h)(10) elections. Explore the M&A process from non-disclosure agreement to the post-closing operation, focusing on the CPA’s role and ways to help clients.

Highlights

• The purpose and role of financial due diligence in the deal process, including quality of earnings analysis, evaluation of forecasts and sustainability of cash flow
• Working capital adjustments and balance sheet due diligence
• The impact of contemplated pricing, earn-outs and holdbacks
• The deal timeline and flow of information
• Understanding the terms and structure that fit the buyer and seller objectives
• Tax and financial accounting treatment of select issues

Objectives

• Recognize the M&A process and the accountant’s role
• Determine how deal drivers present opportunities for client service
• Evaluate critical deal points and terms
• Determine how to plan and execute an effective due diligence process

Designed For

Financial and accountant advisors.