The document provides an overview of the fintech industry as of the third quarter of 2015, highlighting increased market volatility and its impact on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity, which remained robust despite declining equity values. It discusses the challenges financial advisors face in providing fairness opinions in a falling market and emphasizes the importance of assessing corporate forecasts and valuation processes under such conditions. The report also notes that while IPO activity in fintech slowed, M&A continued to grow, particularly in technology segments, with venture capital interest persisting due to high growth potential.