precedent transaction=DCF>trading comps under this scenario

so I have an interview in a few days and this topic is bothering me. I have done my search, but it seems like there isn't a clear cut answer for this topic. I know valuation is as much of an art as it is science but can I say the following and be okay?

Can I say all else equal (projection are "expected" rather than optimistic, market condition stable, purchase price based on market participant assumptions), value indications from precedent transaction (PT) and DCF are equal and greater than that resulting from trading comps since

1) PT and DCF are both on a controlling basis
2) Both PT and DCF incorporates synergies
3) Value indication from trading comps is on a non-controlling basis as the market value of equity is based on the price of a single stock, and price is valued on a standalone basis

2 Comments
 

yes, that is pretty fair to say. Generally, PT > DCF > Trading Comps > LBO. If you do your DCF including synergies and assuming full control, if optimistic, it can be close to or even greater than PT.

If you are going to say that about comps, just be sure that being a potential acquisition target isn't priced into the company or any of the other comparables.

“Success means having the courage, the determination, and the will to become the person you believe you were meant to be”
 

Eum mollitia saepe et. Quaerat minus veniam et at repellendus et. Aut autem omnis tenetur. Architecto aperiam eius laboriosam eligendi ipsam odio nemo. Doloremque cupiditate quaerat consequatur est impedit. Accusantium minus saepe consectetur et eius. Et odio aut sunt.

Career Advancement Opportunities

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.3%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.3%
  • BMO Capital Markets 13 97.7%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 98.3%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.7%
  • JPMorgan 01 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (15) $434
  • Associates (46) $258
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (80) $150
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (73) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”