Big Picture Deal Terms

M&A

Short for mergers and acquisitions. It means buying, selling, or combining businesses. Why it matters: Owners hear this term as shorthand for the entire deal world, including buyer outreach, valuation, diligence, negotiation, closing, and the post-sale handoff.

Related terms

Valuation

An estimate of what the business is worth. Why it matters: Valuation is a range, not a magic number, and it changes based on earnings quality, growth, risk, buyer type, deal structure, and market conditions.

Closing

The moment when the sale officially happens and ownership transfers. Why it matters: This term affects what must happen at closing, how money moves, and how final obligations are documented.

Buyer

The person, company, investor, or fund trying to buy the business. Why it matters: Different buyers value different things, so knowing the buyer type helps an owner understand likely questions, risks, financing needs, and negotiation style.

More from Big Picture Deal Terms

Acquisition Advisor Business Broker Buyer Exit Family Office Financial Buyer Independent Sponsor Investment Banker M&A Advisor Private Equity Firm Search Fund

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