Let the buyer beware — financial due diligence for acquisitions and mergers

What the report covers

Six areas every buyer needs to understand

Our due diligence reports are built around the six questions that most often determine whether a deal should proceed — and on what terms.

1. 01
   True financial viability
   We assess whether the target business is genuinely profitable and sustainable — not just whether the headline figures look attractive. Normalised earnings, working capital trends and cash generation are all examined.
2. 02
   Financial risk profile
   Every acquisition carries risk. We identify concentrations — customer dependency, supplier reliance, covenant exposure — so you understand what you are taking on before the deal closes.
3. 03
   Inherited fraud risk
   Fraud and misrepresentation can be buried in a set of accounts. Our review looks for the warning signs — unusual transactions, related-party arrangements, and inconsistencies between management accounts and statutory filings.
4. 04
   Off-balance-sheet issues
   Contingent liabilities, operating leases, pension obligations and undisclosed guarantees can materially change the value of a deal. We surface these before they become your problem.
5. 05
   Deal negotiation intelligence
   Our findings give you a factual basis for price negotiation, earn-out structuring, and warranty and indemnity discussions. Buyers who commission due diligence consistently achieve better deal terms.
6. 06
   Finance structuring options
   Lenders and investors need to understand the target's financial position before they commit. Our report is structured to support funding applications and to inform the most appropriate mix of debt and equity for the acquisition.