Vendor Assistance
Vendor Assistance.
Interned at small M&A shop whilst in uni where there were two live 50-100mn deals both with the plan to use vendor assist (not to be confused with vendor dd required by the buyer). Now at a more established shop deals ranging from 3/400-2bn, and my MD has such a vendetta against vendor assist it’s like they all slept with his wife!? (She gets around). But seriously, he says banks who hire vendor assist are banks that can’t do their job properly?
Can someone shed some light on this, is this the same at BB/EB level? Do you get vendor assist in at all?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, vendor assistance (distinct from vendor due diligence) can be a divisive topic in M&A. At smaller shops, vendor assistance is often used to streamline processes, especially when resources are limited. However, at larger, more established firms, particularly at the BB/EB level, the perception of vendor assistance can vary significantly.
Your MD's disdain for vendor assistance likely stems from the belief that it reflects poorly on the bank's capabilities. At the BB/EB level, the expectation is that the bank has the internal expertise and resources to handle all aspects of the deal without outsourcing. This aligns with the prestige and reputation these firms aim to maintain. The use of vendor assistance might be seen as a shortcut or a sign of inefficiency, which could undermine client confidence.
That said, the use of vendor assistance isn't unheard of, even at top firms, but it tends to be situational. For example: - Complex Transactions: In highly complex deals, vendor assistance might be brought in for specialized tasks or to expedite certain processes. - Resource Constraints: Even large firms can face bandwidth issues, especially during peak deal activity, which might necessitate external help. - Client Preference: Sometimes, clients may request vendor assistance for specific reasons, and the bank accommodates this.
Ultimately, the decision to use vendor assistance often comes down to the firm's culture, the MD's preferences, and the specific circumstances of the deal. While some MDs, like yours, may view it as a crutch, others might see it as a pragmatic tool to ensure deal success.
Sources: boutique v BB, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/why-go-from-elite-boutique-to-bulge-bracket?customgpt=1, The Case for Elite Boutiques over any Bulge Brackets in 2022, David and Goliath: The Boutique and The Bulge Bracket, Official Investment Banking Rankings: Boutique and Bulge Bracket Prestige
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