Ways Debt can boost LBO returns post-transaction close

Hi guys,

I was recently asked a technical question during an experienced IB Analyst interview that had me stumped.

I was asked: What are 3 ways you could use Debt in an LBO to boost returns?

I only came up with 2:

  1. Taking on Debt to fund a Dividend Recap
  2. Assuming interest rates have fallen since transaction close, taking now new Debt to repay existing Debt, essentially refinancing Debt as a lower interest rate
  3. Taking on Debt to fund an add-on or bolt-on acquisition

The interviewer said I got 2 right, but he did not mention which ones, not which 3 answers they were looking for.

Any input/advice from you guys? Thanks in advance.

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