Co-Investments 1hr Excel Case Study

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and tips for preparing for a 1-hour Excel case study for a co-investment role:

Key Areas to Focus On:

1. Excel Proficiency:

   • Formulas and Functions: Be comfortable with essential Excel functions like VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, INDEX-MATCH, SUMIF, COUNTIF, and various financial functions.
   • Data Analysis: Know how to use PivotTables, PivotCharts, and data analysis tools to summarize and analyze large datasets.
   • Conditional Formatting: Use this to highlight key data points or trends.

2. Financial Modeling:

   • DCF (Discounted Cash Flow): Understand the basics of building a DCF model, including projecting cash flows and discounting them to present value.
   • LBO (Leveraged Buyout): Familiarize yourself with the structure of an LBO model, including debt schedules and equity returns.
   • Comps (Comparable Company Analysis): Be able to pull and analyze comparable company data to derive valuation multiples.

3. Portfolio Analysis:

   • Performance Metrics: Be prepared to calculate and interpret key performance metrics such as IRR (Internal Rate of Return), MOIC (Multiple on Invested Capital), and ROI (Return on Investment).
   • Scenario Analysis: Know how to perform sensitivity analysis to see how changes in assumptions impact the portfolio's performance.

Practical Tips:

• Practice: Use available financial modeling templates and practice building models from scratch.
• Time Management: Since you only have 1 hour, practice working under time constraints to ensure you can complete tasks efficiently.
• Attention to Detail: Ensure your models are error-free and well-organized. Double-check your formulas and data inputs.

Resources:

• WSO Financial Modeling Series: Utilize the free financial modeling lessons available through WSO, which cover essential topics like financial statement modeling, DCF, M&A, LBO, and Comps.
• WSO Training Programs: Consider enrolling in specific training programs such as the Modeling & Valuation Bootcamp or the Private Equity Interview Bootcamp to sharpen your skills.

By focusing on these areas and utilizing the resources available, you should be well-prepared for your Excel case study. Good luck!

Sources: Has anyone here actually made it in RE on their own after leaving their formal job?, Has anyone landed an analyst/associate role in Asset Mgmt or Equity Research with no experience? How?, Real Estate Asset/Portfolio Management Tips and Tools, Failed Real Estate Acq Assoc Candidate Case Study, Q&A - Analyst at $1.5B Endowment Fund