Beware of overly optimistic projections used to value a business
Business valuation experts often rely on prospective financial statements when applying the discounted cash flow (DCF) method to value a private business interest. However, when management prepares financial projections for another purpose — such as a loan application — repurposing […]
Read More Don’t overlook the cost approach when valuing a private business
There are three commonly accepted techniques for valuing a closely held business: the cost (or asset-based) approach, the market approach and the income approach. Valuation professionals routinely consider all three approaches before deciding which is most appropriate for the circumstances […]
Read More Donating private stock? Be sure to get a business valuation
Giving Tuesday is a global event that promotes charitable giving and awareness for philanthropic causes. This year, it falls on December 3. While many people donate cash or volunteer for their favorite causes, charities also welcome donations of company stock. […]
Read More From risk to reward: Valuing emerging-market companies
In today’s global economy, an established business might consider expanding its revenue base by acquiring or merging with a company in an emerging market. These markets — for example, in Brazil, China, India, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey — provide […]
Read More Can marketability discounts apply when valuing controlling business interests?
Discounts for lack of marketability are well established when valuing minority interests in closely held businesses. But many valuation experts believe that controlling business interests also warrant a marketability discount to reflect the uncertainty and risk associated with the timing […]
Read More Goodwill impairment: Is your company at risk?
Goodwill impairment is often a negative indicator. It potentially signals that a business combination failed to meet management’s expectations due to internal or external factors. In recent years, uncertain markets, lingering inflation and high interest rates have caused goodwill impairments […]
Read More Beyond the numbers: 5 red flags that may indicate financial distress
Financial statements help managers, lenders and investors evaluate a company’s financial performance. But they tell only part of the story — and they might not reveal financial distress until it’s too late, especially for companies that issue only annual reports. […]
Read More Chart a course for success with a detailed chart of accounts
A chart of accounts is the foundation of accurate financial reporting, so it needs to be set up correctly. A disorganized chart or one that lumps transactions into broad, undefined “buckets” of data can make it difficult for management to […]
Read More How to report contingent liabilities in your company’s financial statements
It’s critical for business owners and managers to understand how to present contingent liabilities accurately in the financial statements. Under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), some contingent losses may be reported on the balance sheet and income statement, while […]
Read More 5 reasons to outsource your bookkeeping
Running a closely held business is challenging. Owners usually prioritize core business operations — such as managing employees, serving customers and bringing in new sales — over tedious bookkeeping tasks. Plus, the accounting rules can be overwhelming. However, access to […]
Read More The evolution of financial reporting
In recent years, the accounting rules have undergone significant changes, including updated standards for reporting revenue, leases and credit losses. While business owners and managers often express frustration over the complexity of these rules, they’re more than an exercise in […]
Read More How do external auditors evaluate audit risks?
As calendar-year entities wrap up financial reporting for the year, their external auditors work behind the scenes to prepare for audit season. Here’s what you can do to help facilitate the audit planning process. The audit risk assessment During fieldwork, […]
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