What do you look for in a client in a sell side transaction

I was interviewing with a sell-side M&A shop and got asked the following question : "In a first call with a potential client what would you be looking for to decide whether you'll go forward with them/ what are some green flags they'll be interesting for investors". I talked about the 3 points below, what would you add to the list? 1. Management and their expectations. They should be reasonable and have valuation expectations we can defend 2. Motivation to sell, if they don't have a good motivation to sell (cashing out included) or to raise capital then it could be a red flag 3. Financials : Should be somewhat healthy or have a strong growth thesis, and the transaction should also be within the size the bank can execute and interest investors

5 Comments
 

How well they can compile an initial information request list for you in order to pitch them. If they struggle to get you info or flat out don't want to provide it, it's a red flag. On the flip side, if they have good internal controls, strong KPIs/data, and decent financial trends (not stepping on a falling knife), it becomes a strong prospect.

 

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