Consider the cost approach in M&A

Description

Abstract: Under the cost approach, a company’s value equals the difference between its combined assets and liabilities. It requires a substantial amount of work to convert a cost-basis balance sheet to the required standard of value. This article explains how buyers and sellers are increasingly using this approach in mergers and acquisitions (M&As) to help compartmentalize the components of value, facilitate discussions about how to structure a deal and prepare for postsale purchase price allocations. This article also covers the basics, including the pros and cons, of this valuation approach.