Due diligence is a fantastic chance to make sure that the private equity investment is backed by a solid growth strategy. This is particularly important in a high-multiple market where private equity investors must to show significant growth in order to achieve their internal rate of return threshold rates.
The most successful private equity firms double-check information contained in the confidential Information Memorandum (CIM) by requesting specific commercial diligence. This allows them to confirm what the CIM states with additional information that will support their Day One growth strategy.
Legal due diligence is an essential part of this, verifying that the purchase will not expose the new owner to unanticipated liabilities. The legal team will review the company’s structure, ownership details and stock information in order to determine if there are any potential issues.
The physical assets, like equipment, facilities and stock are also examined in private equity data rooms and effective deals commercial due diligence. This will verify that the assets are in good working order and help identify opportunities to increase efficiency or improve asset utilization. Additionally, the team will examine the documentation for human resources to better understand the company’s leadership as well as its human capital such as org charts and roles. They will also examine treasury documentation to verify the amount of shares that were purchased and search for rights, debt equity agreements or securities that may grant current owners a preemptive right. Additionally, the team will examine a company’s legal contracts and agreements to identify any potential roadblocks to future expansion or M&A.