This document provides an overview and summary of key considerations for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transactions involving venture capital (VC) investors. It discusses issues such as board consideration of acquisition proposals, director indemnification, M&A planning, transaction structures, selling shareholder implications, litigation expense funds, earn-outs, and appointing a shareholder representative. The summary highlights fiduciary duties of boards, types of M&A transaction structures including taxable and tax-free deals, and complexities that may arise in venture-backed exits.
Risk intelligence: How to reliably mitigate transaction risk and secure clean...Graeme Cross
This risk intelligence white paper is part of a series of publications from Aon Strategic Advisors & Transaction Solutions (ASATS). The series focuses on risk management and mitigation and is specifically created to help:
• Chief executives and corporate management board members pursuing growth strategies through M&A, or divesting
• Corporate tax managers, development officers and legal counsel responsible for planning, overseeing and / or delivering planned value from M&A
• Chief executive and chief financial officers of private-equity backed portfolio companies
• Private equity executives, portfolio managers and risk officers
• Corporate finance, accounting, tax and legal advisors servicing corporate and private
equity clients
Structuring and Planning the M&A Transaction (Series: Private Company M&A Boo...Financial Poise
There is an old carpenters’ expression, “measure twice, cut once.” M&A work is just one of many areas in business and law where this expression resonates. Buyers and sellers, like chess players anticipating many moves in advance, should envision and plan the route to get a deal done, including anticipated detours, at the onset of the transaction.
This webinar discusses the similarities and differences between basic M&A transaction structures; purchase price payment concerns; the most common issues that arise in the early stages of M&A transactions of all kinds; the relationship between ostensibly unrelated sections of an M&A agreement; and transaction timeline. One focus of this episode is a threshold question in many deals: whether the buyer will buy equity or assets. This episode will, in summary form, cover many of the issues discussed in greater depth in subsequent episodes.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/structuring-and-planning-the-ma-transaction-2020/
Eddie Lampert bought Kmart out of bankruptcy. W.L. Ross made a fortune many times over buying steel and other companies out of bankruptcy. Hedge funds and other distressed debt traders buy and sell millions of dollars of distressed securities and bankruptcy claims every day. A number of private equity funds focus exclusively on buying distressed businesses, fixing, and selling them. And fortunes are made when real estate crashes by those who have the dry powder to swoop in and buy when others are forced to sell. This webinar explains how to loan to, or purchase the debt of, a company in order to acquire it (a strategy commonly called “loan to own”); how to learn about opportunities involving distressed companies; and tips and best practices for participating in bankruptcy, Article 9, and other sales of distressed businesses (including the concept of serving as the “stalking horse).
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/opportunity-amidst-crisis-buying-distressed-assets-claims-and-securities-for-fun-profit-2020/
Current Trends in Leveraged Finance (Series: Leveraged Finance)Financial Poise
This webinar discusses some of the latest trends and developments in leveraged finance terms and practices and the extent to which some of these have gained market acceptance.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/current-trends-in-leveraged-finance-2021/
Representing Asset Purchasers in Bankruptcy (Series: Bankruptcy Transactions ...Financial Poise
Representing an asset purchaser in a bankruptcy proceeding presents unique benefits and challenges for a professional business advisor. Companies considering acquiring assets out of bankruptcy must understand more than the simple concept of acquiring the target assets “free and clear,” under the Bankruptcy Code. As such, professionals advising these companies must understand and be able to counsel their clients regarding various matters, such as the benefits and drawbacks of serving as a “stalking horse,” asset purchaser; drafting and negotiating the terms of an asset purchase agreement and sale order with the bankrupt debtor and other parties involved in the bankruptcy proceedings; strategies for acquiring assets at auction or by alternative means; and seeking bankruptcy court approval of a proposed transaction. For 2021, professionals must also understand the impact that the economic programs enacted under the CARES Act may have on purchasing such assets. This webinar focuses on understanding these concepts and addressing best practices for advanced reorganization practitioners and advisors.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to:https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/representing-asset-purchasers-in-bankruptcy-2021/
Representing Asset Purchasers in Bankruptcy (Series: Bankruptcy Transactions:...Financial Poise
Representing an asset purchaser in a bankruptcy proceeding presents unique benefits and challenges for a professional business advisor. Companies considering acquiring assets out of bankruptcy must understand more than the simple concept of acquiring the target assets “free and clear,” under the bankruptcy code. As such, professionals advising these companies must understand and be able to counsel their clients regarding various matters, such as the benefits and drawbacks of serving as a “stalking horse,” asset purchaser; drafting and negotiating the terms of an asset purchase agreement and sale order with the bankrupt debtor and other parties involved in the bankruptcy proceedings; strategies for acquiring assets at auction or by alternative means; and seeking bankruptcy court approval of a proposed transaction. This webinar focuses on understanding these concepts and addressing best practices for advanced reorganization practitioners and advisors.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/representing-asset-purchasers-in-bankruptcy-2020/
Risk intelligence: How to reliably mitigate transaction risk and secure clean...Graeme Cross
This risk intelligence white paper is part of a series of publications from Aon Strategic Advisors & Transaction Solutions (ASATS). The series focuses on risk management and mitigation and is specifically created to help:
• Chief executives and corporate management board members pursuing growth strategies through M&A, or divesting
• Corporate tax managers, development officers and legal counsel responsible for planning, overseeing and / or delivering planned value from M&A
• Chief executive and chief financial officers of private-equity backed portfolio companies
• Private equity executives, portfolio managers and risk officers
• Corporate finance, accounting, tax and legal advisors servicing corporate and private
equity clients
Structuring and Planning the M&A Transaction (Series: Private Company M&A Boo...Financial Poise
There is an old carpenters’ expression, “measure twice, cut once.” M&A work is just one of many areas in business and law where this expression resonates. Buyers and sellers, like chess players anticipating many moves in advance, should envision and plan the route to get a deal done, including anticipated detours, at the onset of the transaction.
This webinar discusses the similarities and differences between basic M&A transaction structures; purchase price payment concerns; the most common issues that arise in the early stages of M&A transactions of all kinds; the relationship between ostensibly unrelated sections of an M&A agreement; and transaction timeline. One focus of this episode is a threshold question in many deals: whether the buyer will buy equity or assets. This episode will, in summary form, cover many of the issues discussed in greater depth in subsequent episodes.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/structuring-and-planning-the-ma-transaction-2020/
Eddie Lampert bought Kmart out of bankruptcy. W.L. Ross made a fortune many times over buying steel and other companies out of bankruptcy. Hedge funds and other distressed debt traders buy and sell millions of dollars of distressed securities and bankruptcy claims every day. A number of private equity funds focus exclusively on buying distressed businesses, fixing, and selling them. And fortunes are made when real estate crashes by those who have the dry powder to swoop in and buy when others are forced to sell. This webinar explains how to loan to, or purchase the debt of, a company in order to acquire it (a strategy commonly called “loan to own”); how to learn about opportunities involving distressed companies; and tips and best practices for participating in bankruptcy, Article 9, and other sales of distressed businesses (including the concept of serving as the “stalking horse).
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/opportunity-amidst-crisis-buying-distressed-assets-claims-and-securities-for-fun-profit-2020/
Current Trends in Leveraged Finance (Series: Leveraged Finance)Financial Poise
This webinar discusses some of the latest trends and developments in leveraged finance terms and practices and the extent to which some of these have gained market acceptance.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/current-trends-in-leveraged-finance-2021/
Representing Asset Purchasers in Bankruptcy (Series: Bankruptcy Transactions ...Financial Poise
Representing an asset purchaser in a bankruptcy proceeding presents unique benefits and challenges for a professional business advisor. Companies considering acquiring assets out of bankruptcy must understand more than the simple concept of acquiring the target assets “free and clear,” under the Bankruptcy Code. As such, professionals advising these companies must understand and be able to counsel their clients regarding various matters, such as the benefits and drawbacks of serving as a “stalking horse,” asset purchaser; drafting and negotiating the terms of an asset purchase agreement and sale order with the bankrupt debtor and other parties involved in the bankruptcy proceedings; strategies for acquiring assets at auction or by alternative means; and seeking bankruptcy court approval of a proposed transaction. For 2021, professionals must also understand the impact that the economic programs enacted under the CARES Act may have on purchasing such assets. This webinar focuses on understanding these concepts and addressing best practices for advanced reorganization practitioners and advisors.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to:https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/representing-asset-purchasers-in-bankruptcy-2021/
Representing Asset Purchasers in Bankruptcy (Series: Bankruptcy Transactions:...Financial Poise
Representing an asset purchaser in a bankruptcy proceeding presents unique benefits and challenges for a professional business advisor. Companies considering acquiring assets out of bankruptcy must understand more than the simple concept of acquiring the target assets “free and clear,” under the bankruptcy code. As such, professionals advising these companies must understand and be able to counsel their clients regarding various matters, such as the benefits and drawbacks of serving as a “stalking horse,” asset purchaser; drafting and negotiating the terms of an asset purchase agreement and sale order with the bankrupt debtor and other parties involved in the bankruptcy proceedings; strategies for acquiring assets at auction or by alternative means; and seeking bankruptcy court approval of a proposed transaction. This webinar focuses on understanding these concepts and addressing best practices for advanced reorganization practitioners and advisors.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/representing-asset-purchasers-in-bankruptcy-2020/
David Shore gave this presentation to the Island Tech 2009 conference on the topic of Angel Investing. Rick Rasmussen co-presented on the mechanics of developing an angel group (with a different slide deck).
ddie Lampert bought Kmart out of bankruptcy. W.L. Ross made a fortune many times over buying steel and other companies out of bankruptcy. Hedge funds and other distressed debt traders buy and sell millions of dollars of distressed securities and bankruptcy claims every day. A number of private equity funds focus exclusively on buying distressed businesses, fixing, and selling them. And fortunes are made when real estate crashes by those who have the dry powder to swoop in and buy when others are forced to sell. This webinar explains how to loan to, or purchase the debt of, a company in order to acquire it (a strategy commonly called “loan to own”); how to learn about opportunities involving distressed companies; and tips and best practices for participating in bankruptcy, Article 9, and other sales of distressed businesses (including the concept of serving as the “stalking horse).
Part of the webinar series: RESTRUCTURING, INSOLVENCY & TROUBLED COMPANIES 2021
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
Executive compensation continues its movement towards performance pay as the standard. Compensation structures and proxy disclosures are more and more complex. Investors and proxy advisors continue to increase influence on compensation issues. This webinar examines executive compensation, including equity-based compensation plans and executive employment and severance agreements. The importance of disclosure, alignment of risk, and metrics is also examined. Practical guidance on pay-for-performance and supplemental pay definitions is provided. The panelists discuss the effect of the Dodd-Frank Act on executive compensation, including SEC regulations. Exchange rules are compared to applicable federal law. Best practices regarding executive compensation committees and regulatory requirements for those committees are examined. Shareholder advisory groups promulgate executive compensation related advisory policies for their institutional shareholder clients annually and these policies are also discussed. Issues regarding board composition and leadership structure issues are discussed in relation to executive compensation.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/executive-compensation-2021/
A deposit is a pre-agreed instalment towards the purchase price in a sale contract.
The Courts have held that the 2 functions of a deposit are to be:
- an earnest commitment to bind the bargain, which means a deposit acts as an indication the Buyer is serious in carrying out the bargain; and
- a guarantee of due performance, that is security of the performance.
A deposit is usually paid at or upon shortly upon the buyer’s signing of the contract.
Usually, a deposit should be no more than 10% of the total purchase price, and commonly may be less. Note: there is no specific laws on that deposit percentage amount per se*.
The other practical, commercial and financial reasons for why a deposit is useful:
> Often the seller will incur not-insignificant fees and expenses (e.g. sale preparatory work and undergoing due diligence, applying to lessor for consent to assignment of lease etc), independent of whether the actual contract proceeds to settlement or completion. So may be also used to partially-compensate for some of those costs incurred If the buyer ultimately walks away”.
> Loss of potential, other sale opportunities during the express or implied exclusivity period during the conditions precedent of sale contract. This could be months or longer
> It's good to have the buyer show it has “skin in the game” by having such "hurt money" put upfront on & the table.
Tip: Even with the best of Confidentiality Deeds/NDAs , the deposit helps reinforce the value and proprietary nature of the seller’s business or entity.
> Not uncommonly, the Buyer entity may be newly-established . Therefore, if there is default or repudiation, even if they are subsequently pursued by the seller, the Buyer may not have any actual capitalisation to be realised against!
> Lastly, if a buyer or won’t (or can’t!?) put up even the deposit, then you should have serious concerns about their financial capacity to commit all the way through the transaction.
Key & Common Negotiated Provisions - Part 1 (Series: PRIVATE COMPANY M&A BOOT...Financial Poise
Although every deal is different, understanding any purchase/sale agreement will help you understand other purchase sale agreements. Stated another way, most M&A documents include a similar set of sections and use a similar vocabulary. Episodes 3 and 4 of this series explain specific, common provisions and discuss how buyers and sellers approach these provisions differently, particularly in light of situational differences (e.g. whether the assets being bought and sold are equity of a company or the assets of a company; whether the seller is going to cease to exists or not). Between Episodes 3 and 4, topics covered will include tax issues; corporate governance; closing conditions; representations and warranties; indemnification provisions; earn-outs; restrictive covenants; antitrust; intellectual property; and employment issues.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financialpoisewebinars/on_demand_webinars/common-negotiated-provisions-part-1/
Royse Law Firm and BNY Mellon Wealth Management discuss the various legal, tax, and financial scenarios to consider when selling your business.
- Is this a good time in the global economic environment to be planning an exit?
- What personal financial planning is necessary to maximize the benefit of this exit for my family and me?
- What legal, tax, and financial due diligence is critical to ensuring a successful exit?
- What are the key elements to successfully selling your business?
Crowdfunding from the Start-Up's Perspective (Series: Crowdfunding 2020) Financial Poise
How can businesses use the tools created by the JOBS Act to access capital? This webinar compares raising money online to traditional methods of capital raising. It also compares each of the different titles available under the JOBS Act. Finally, we discuss and compare the differences between security based crowdfunding and rewards based crowdfunding, exploring those instances where such a method would make sense.
To listen to this webinar on demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/crowdfunding-from-the-start-ups-perspective-2020/
It is said that business partnerships are like marriage: easy to get into, messy to get out of. Typically, entrepreneurs require something only a partner can bring to the table, such as money, contacts or a skill set. Sometimes an entrepreneur needs the confidence that can only be provided by working with someone else. Often entrepreneurs spend more time interviewing and assessing the fit of an employee than a prospective partner and end up regretting getting into business with their partner.
Watch event video for more: http://www.marsdd.com/videos/?sort=&se=bestpractices
This talk describes the representations and warranties clauses in a typical business purchase contract, the clauses limiting time in which such clauses may be enforceable, the dollar limits on same, and other non-contract ways to enforce your deals, such as reps and warranties insurance, fraudulent transfer litigation, arbitration, and suits against negligent deal intermediaries
"How to maximize your potential to attract US capital" by John Bautista TheFamily
By John Bautista, Partner at Orrick.
Join us IRL next time! http://meetup.com/thefamilyspecialevents
The contents of this video are intended for general information purposes only and should not be considered or construed as legal advice. The distribution of this presentation or its content is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. (The views set forth herein are the personal views of the presenters and do not necessarily reflect those of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe.)
BizON had the honour of sponsoring the Business Transition Forum! We would like to share some valuable information with our audience from the forum in case you did not have the opportunity to attend!
Common Issues and Strategies in Business Breakups (Series: Complex Financial ...Financial Poise
As any entrepreneur will attest, starting and operating a business comes with unique challenges. These challenges are a key reason that, by some estimates, half of the companies that are founded today will not exist four years from now. It can be argued that the effort and attention needed to find success precludes business owners from planning for failure. This webinar focuses on the realities of a failing business from the owners’ perspective. Join our panel of experts as they discuss the various considerations that should be given at the outset of start-up negotiations and through business breakup, including dispute negotiation and litigation.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/common-issues-strategies-business-breakups-2020/
How to Position Your Startup for Venture Capital Fundingideatoipo
During this webinar you will learn the basics of the venture model and path along with the necessary steps to take so that your company’s legal structure is an attractive investment. The discussion will cover:
1. Why a Delaware C-Corp is the most-common structure
2. How to document the relationship of the founders and early employees
3. The typical funding stages of a successful startup
4. An overview of convertible debt and SAFEs
5. Why it’s critical to run pro forma cap tables before financings
6. What happens in a venture financing
7. Why compliance with securities laws is important
8. Common legal mistakes in raising capital
9. And much, much more
Fairness Considerations in Going Private TransactionsJeff Davis
While there once may have been a good reason to be a public company (or not), that may no longer be the case: hence, consideration of a go-private transaction may be warranted. This short presentation is intended to provide an overview of some issues surrounding a decision to take an SEC-registrant private. This presentation does not cover all issues with going private transactions; nor should it be construed to convey legal, accounting or tax-related advice. Companies considering such a move should hire appropriate legal and financial advisors.
David Shore gave this presentation to the Island Tech 2009 conference on the topic of Angel Investing. Rick Rasmussen co-presented on the mechanics of developing an angel group (with a different slide deck).
ddie Lampert bought Kmart out of bankruptcy. W.L. Ross made a fortune many times over buying steel and other companies out of bankruptcy. Hedge funds and other distressed debt traders buy and sell millions of dollars of distressed securities and bankruptcy claims every day. A number of private equity funds focus exclusively on buying distressed businesses, fixing, and selling them. And fortunes are made when real estate crashes by those who have the dry powder to swoop in and buy when others are forced to sell. This webinar explains how to loan to, or purchase the debt of, a company in order to acquire it (a strategy commonly called “loan to own”); how to learn about opportunities involving distressed companies; and tips and best practices for participating in bankruptcy, Article 9, and other sales of distressed businesses (including the concept of serving as the “stalking horse).
Part of the webinar series: RESTRUCTURING, INSOLVENCY & TROUBLED COMPANIES 2021
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
Executive compensation continues its movement towards performance pay as the standard. Compensation structures and proxy disclosures are more and more complex. Investors and proxy advisors continue to increase influence on compensation issues. This webinar examines executive compensation, including equity-based compensation plans and executive employment and severance agreements. The importance of disclosure, alignment of risk, and metrics is also examined. Practical guidance on pay-for-performance and supplemental pay definitions is provided. The panelists discuss the effect of the Dodd-Frank Act on executive compensation, including SEC regulations. Exchange rules are compared to applicable federal law. Best practices regarding executive compensation committees and regulatory requirements for those committees are examined. Shareholder advisory groups promulgate executive compensation related advisory policies for their institutional shareholder clients annually and these policies are also discussed. Issues regarding board composition and leadership structure issues are discussed in relation to executive compensation.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/executive-compensation-2021/
A deposit is a pre-agreed instalment towards the purchase price in a sale contract.
The Courts have held that the 2 functions of a deposit are to be:
- an earnest commitment to bind the bargain, which means a deposit acts as an indication the Buyer is serious in carrying out the bargain; and
- a guarantee of due performance, that is security of the performance.
A deposit is usually paid at or upon shortly upon the buyer’s signing of the contract.
Usually, a deposit should be no more than 10% of the total purchase price, and commonly may be less. Note: there is no specific laws on that deposit percentage amount per se*.
The other practical, commercial and financial reasons for why a deposit is useful:
> Often the seller will incur not-insignificant fees and expenses (e.g. sale preparatory work and undergoing due diligence, applying to lessor for consent to assignment of lease etc), independent of whether the actual contract proceeds to settlement or completion. So may be also used to partially-compensate for some of those costs incurred If the buyer ultimately walks away”.
> Loss of potential, other sale opportunities during the express or implied exclusivity period during the conditions precedent of sale contract. This could be months or longer
> It's good to have the buyer show it has “skin in the game” by having such "hurt money" put upfront on & the table.
Tip: Even with the best of Confidentiality Deeds/NDAs , the deposit helps reinforce the value and proprietary nature of the seller’s business or entity.
> Not uncommonly, the Buyer entity may be newly-established . Therefore, if there is default or repudiation, even if they are subsequently pursued by the seller, the Buyer may not have any actual capitalisation to be realised against!
> Lastly, if a buyer or won’t (or can’t!?) put up even the deposit, then you should have serious concerns about their financial capacity to commit all the way through the transaction.
Key & Common Negotiated Provisions - Part 1 (Series: PRIVATE COMPANY M&A BOOT...Financial Poise
Although every deal is different, understanding any purchase/sale agreement will help you understand other purchase sale agreements. Stated another way, most M&A documents include a similar set of sections and use a similar vocabulary. Episodes 3 and 4 of this series explain specific, common provisions and discuss how buyers and sellers approach these provisions differently, particularly in light of situational differences (e.g. whether the assets being bought and sold are equity of a company or the assets of a company; whether the seller is going to cease to exists or not). Between Episodes 3 and 4, topics covered will include tax issues; corporate governance; closing conditions; representations and warranties; indemnification provisions; earn-outs; restrictive covenants; antitrust; intellectual property; and employment issues.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financialpoisewebinars/on_demand_webinars/common-negotiated-provisions-part-1/
Royse Law Firm and BNY Mellon Wealth Management discuss the various legal, tax, and financial scenarios to consider when selling your business.
- Is this a good time in the global economic environment to be planning an exit?
- What personal financial planning is necessary to maximize the benefit of this exit for my family and me?
- What legal, tax, and financial due diligence is critical to ensuring a successful exit?
- What are the key elements to successfully selling your business?
Crowdfunding from the Start-Up's Perspective (Series: Crowdfunding 2020) Financial Poise
How can businesses use the tools created by the JOBS Act to access capital? This webinar compares raising money online to traditional methods of capital raising. It also compares each of the different titles available under the JOBS Act. Finally, we discuss and compare the differences between security based crowdfunding and rewards based crowdfunding, exploring those instances where such a method would make sense.
To listen to this webinar on demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/crowdfunding-from-the-start-ups-perspective-2020/
It is said that business partnerships are like marriage: easy to get into, messy to get out of. Typically, entrepreneurs require something only a partner can bring to the table, such as money, contacts or a skill set. Sometimes an entrepreneur needs the confidence that can only be provided by working with someone else. Often entrepreneurs spend more time interviewing and assessing the fit of an employee than a prospective partner and end up regretting getting into business with their partner.
Watch event video for more: http://www.marsdd.com/videos/?sort=&se=bestpractices
This talk describes the representations and warranties clauses in a typical business purchase contract, the clauses limiting time in which such clauses may be enforceable, the dollar limits on same, and other non-contract ways to enforce your deals, such as reps and warranties insurance, fraudulent transfer litigation, arbitration, and suits against negligent deal intermediaries
"How to maximize your potential to attract US capital" by John Bautista TheFamily
By John Bautista, Partner at Orrick.
Join us IRL next time! http://meetup.com/thefamilyspecialevents
The contents of this video are intended for general information purposes only and should not be considered or construed as legal advice. The distribution of this presentation or its content is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. (The views set forth herein are the personal views of the presenters and do not necessarily reflect those of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe.)
BizON had the honour of sponsoring the Business Transition Forum! We would like to share some valuable information with our audience from the forum in case you did not have the opportunity to attend!
Common Issues and Strategies in Business Breakups (Series: Complex Financial ...Financial Poise
As any entrepreneur will attest, starting and operating a business comes with unique challenges. These challenges are a key reason that, by some estimates, half of the companies that are founded today will not exist four years from now. It can be argued that the effort and attention needed to find success precludes business owners from planning for failure. This webinar focuses on the realities of a failing business from the owners’ perspective. Join our panel of experts as they discuss the various considerations that should be given at the outset of start-up negotiations and through business breakup, including dispute negotiation and litigation.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/common-issues-strategies-business-breakups-2020/
How to Position Your Startup for Venture Capital Fundingideatoipo
During this webinar you will learn the basics of the venture model and path along with the necessary steps to take so that your company’s legal structure is an attractive investment. The discussion will cover:
1. Why a Delaware C-Corp is the most-common structure
2. How to document the relationship of the founders and early employees
3. The typical funding stages of a successful startup
4. An overview of convertible debt and SAFEs
5. Why it’s critical to run pro forma cap tables before financings
6. What happens in a venture financing
7. Why compliance with securities laws is important
8. Common legal mistakes in raising capital
9. And much, much more
Fairness Considerations in Going Private TransactionsJeff Davis
While there once may have been a good reason to be a public company (or not), that may no longer be the case: hence, consideration of a go-private transaction may be warranted. This short presentation is intended to provide an overview of some issues surrounding a decision to take an SEC-registrant private. This presentation does not cover all issues with going private transactions; nor should it be construed to convey legal, accounting or tax-related advice. Companies considering such a move should hire appropriate legal and financial advisors.
The harbor in Pondicherry had devastating environmental, social and economic consequences and now the Govt of Puducherry wants to build another harbor at the southern end. Find out what will be the impacts.
VCs are exposed to unique challenges and risks when selling portfolio companies, and what is acceptable from a company's perspective may not be optimal for the investor base. An understanding of what goes wrong after companies are sold helps investors focus on effective planning strategies to protect returns and minimize exposure of their funds after closing.
There is an old carpenters’ expression, “measure twice, cut once.” M&A work is just one of many areas in business and law where this expression resonates. Buyers and sellers, like chess players anticipating many moves in advance, should envision and plan the route to get a deal done, including anticipated detours, at the onset of the transaction.
This webinar discusses the similarities and differences between basic M&A transaction structures; purchase price payment concerns; the most common issues that arise in the early stages of M&A transactions of all kinds; the relationship between ostensibly unrelated sections of an M&A agreement; and transaction timeline. One focus of this episode is a threshold question in many deals: whether the buyer will buy equity or assets. This episode will, in summary form, cover many of the issues discussed in greater depth in subsequent episodes.
Part of the webinar series: M&A BOOT CAMP - 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
The deal is complete, and the parties have finished the hard work. Or have they? Integration planning turns to execution as people, process, and technology are combined once the deal is legally closed. The buyer will need to consider the purchased business or assets from the standpoint of employees, IT, customers, suppliers, and a multitude of other areas. In addition, numerous post-closing legal issues may arise, including purchase price adjustments, breaches of representations and warranties, enforcement of key negative employment-related covenants and restrictive covenants, collection of pre-closing accounts receivable, and true-ups of final financials. This episode guides listeners through the process, timing, and issues which most commonly arise after the closing of deals.
Part of the webinar series:
M&A BOOT CAMP - 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
There is an old carpenters’ expression, “measure twice, cut once.” M&A work is just one of many areas in business and law where this expression resonates. Buyers and sellers, like chess players anticipating many moves in advance, should envision and plan the route to get a deal done, including anticipated detours, at the onset of the transaction.
This webinar discusses the similarities and differences between basic M&A transaction structures; purchase price payment concerns; the most common issues that arise in the early stages of M&A transactions of all kinds; the relationship between ostensibly unrelated sections of an M&A agreement; and transaction timeline. One focus of this episode is a threshold question in many deals: whether the buyer will buy equity or assets. This episode will, in summary form, cover many of the issues discussed in greater depth in subsequent episodes.
Part of the webinar series: M&A Boot Camp 2021
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
The deal is complete, and the parties have finished the hard work. Or have they? Integration planning turns to execution as people, process, and technology are combined once the deal is legally closed. The buyer will need to consider the purchased business or assets from the standpoint of employees, IT, customers, suppliers, and a multitude of other areas. In addition, numerous post-closing legal issues may arise, including purchase price adjustments, breaches of representations and warranties, enforcement of key negative employment-related covenants and restrictive covenants, collection of pre-closing accounts receivable, and true-ups of final financials. This episode guides listeners through the process, timing, and issues which most commonly arise after the closing of deals.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/post-closing-issues-integration-potential-buyer-seller-disputes-2021/
Although every deal is different, understanding any purchase/sale agreement will help you understand other purchase sale agreements. Stated another way, most M&A documents include a similar set of sections and use a similar vocabulary. This episode explains specific, common provisions and discusses how buyers and sellers approach these provisions differently, particularly in light of situational differences (e.g. whether the assets being bought and sold are equity of a company or the assets of a company; whether the seller is going to cease to exists or not). Topics covered will include tax issues; corporate governance; closing conditions; representations and warranties; indemnification provisions; earn-outs; restrictive covenants; antitrust; intellectual property; and employment issues.
Part of the webinar series:
M&A BOOT CAMP - 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
Key Provisions in M&A Agreements (Series: M&A Boot Camp)Financial Poise
Although every deal is different, understanding any purchase/sale agreement will help you understand other purchase sale agreements. Stated another way, most M&A documents include a similar set of sections and use a similar vocabulary. This episode explains specific, common provisions and discusses how buyers and sellers approach these provisions differently, particularly in light of situational differences (e.g. whether the assets being bought and sold are equity of a company or the assets of a company; whether the seller is going to cease to exists or not). Topics covered will include tax issues; corporate governance; closing conditions; representations and warranties; indemnification provisions; earn-outs; restrictive covenants; antitrust; intellectual property; and employment issues.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/key-provisions-in-ma-agreements-2021/
Negotiating the terms of a buy/sell agreement (i.e. an M&A transaction) requires both knowledge of the law and the “market.” This webinar involves the panelists engaging in mock negotiations of a variety of deal points which commonly arise in M&A transactions. Listen in as buyer’s and seller’s counsel haggle over representations, warranties, indemnification, purchase price payment mechanisms, and a host of other hotly negotiated terms.
Part of the webinar series: M&A BOOT CAMP 2021
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
The leveraged lending market has developed its own set of market terms and conventions, many of which do not exist outside of this market. This webinar gives a basic overview of leveraged finance credit agreements and the legal issues that arise when working on leveraged loans.
Part of the webinar series: LEVERAGED FINANCE 2021
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
RESTRUCTURING, INSOLVENCY & TROUBLED COMPANIES 2022: Bad Debtor Owes Me Money!Financial Poise
Sometimes it begins when a client, tenant, or customer starts to slow-pay, with the result that your accounts receivable start to accrue gradually. Other times the issue presents itself more suddenly. Either way, you find your company owed a great deal of money that looks like it may not be collected because your client/tenant/customer has filed bankruptcy, has commenced an assignment for the benefit of creditors, has been put into receivership, or is otherwise just plain insolvent. What do you do? What should you not do? The topics discussed in this webinar include the pros and cons of putting a counterparty into involuntary bankruptcy; when and how you may be able to pursue third parties (like guarantors, directors, or officers) for the amount owed; risks related to preference attack; pros and cons of sitting on a “creditors’ committee” in a Chapter 11; how to negotiate for “critical vendor” protection in Chapter 11; and practical guidance for continuing to provide goods or services to an insolvent counterparty.
Part of the webinar series: RESTRUCTURING, INSOLVENCY & TROUBLED COMPANIES 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
When a business becomes financially troubled, the business owner often experiences denial, paralysis, or both. Lenders commonly lose confidence and then trust in the business, as communications tend to break down, deadlines are missed, and promises are broken. Small business owners commonly have issued personal guarantees, so business failure can often lead to personal financial stress. The good news is the business and business owner usually has some options, and even some leverage. This webinar explains what a business owner should- and should not- consider and do when dealing with financial trouble. Specific topics include discussion of bankruptcy (Chapters 7 and 11); assignments for the benefit of creditors; and friendly foreclosures. This webinar provides the business owner and her advisors with an overview of various restructuring and liquidation methods, a framework for how to decide between them, and practical tips for traversing the difficult environment that is financial distress.
Part of the webinar series:
RESTRUCTURING, INSOLVENCY & TROUBLED COMPANIES 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
Eddie Lampert bought Kmart out of bankruptcy. W.L. Ross made a fortune many times over buying steel and other companies out of bankruptcy. Hedge funds and other distressed debt traders buy and sell millions of dollars of distressed securities and bankruptcy claims every day. A number of private equity funds focus exclusively on buying distressed businesses, fixing, and selling them. And fortunes are made when real estate crashes by those who have the dry powder to swoop in and buy when others are forced to sell. This webinar explains how to loan to, or purchase the debt of, a company in order to acquire it (a strategy commonly called “loan to own”); how to learn about opportunities involving distressed companies; and tips and best practices for participating in bankruptcy, Article 9, and other sales of distressed businesses (including the concept of serving as the “stalking horse).
Part of the webinar series: RESTRUCTURING, INSOLVENCY & TROUBLED COMPANIES 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
Business Borrowing Basics 2020 - Dealing With DefaultsFinancial Poise
Some borrowers default. One type of default is a payment default- the loan is not paid when due or a particular payment is missed. The other type of default is a covenant default. This webinar explains both, and discusses what happens when one happens.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/dealing-with-defaults-2020/
1. Mergers & Acquisitions: What VC Investors Should Know Laurie A. Allen Royse Law Firm, PC 10900 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 300 Los Angeles, CA 90024 (310) 481-0125/(310) 770-2696 lallen@rroyselaw.com IRS Circular 230 Disclosure: To ensure compliance with the requirements imposed by the IRS, we inform you that any tax advice contained in this communication, including any attachment to this communication, is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by any taxpayer for the purpose of (1) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (2) promoting, marketing or recommending to any other person any transaction or matter addressed herein.
2. OVERVIEW Board Consideration of Acquisition Proposal Director Indemnification M&A Planning M&A Transaction Process & Structures M&A Issues with Selling Shareholder Implications Litigation Expense Funds Holdback Escrow and Escrow Agreements Earn-Outs Shareholder Representative 2
3. BOARD CONSIDERATION OF ACQUISTION PROPOSAL • Fiduciary Duties: • To Shareholders • To Creditors for Troubled Companies • Best Practices Approach: • Be Informed About the Company’s Value • Be Actively Engaged in the Process • Consider All Available Alternatives • Use a Reasonable Process to Gather Information • Appoint Special Committee 3
4. DIRECTOR INDEMNIFICAITON • Director Indemnification – Before Assuming Board Seat • Update Charter and Bylaws • Indemnification Agreement – Include Levy language • D&O Insurance • Merger Agreement - D&O Post-Closing Indemnity • Buyer’s Covenant to Continue Director Indemnity for Specified Time • Company Assumes Director Indemnification Agreement or Buyer Directly Indemnifies Former Directors • Covenant to Continue or Obtain New D&O Policy (usually for six years and premium cap) 4
46. M&A ISSUES /SELLING SHAREHOLDER IMPLICATIONS • Conflict of Interest: Seller’s Counsel • Seller’s Counsel represents Company • Attorney-Client Privilege Stays with Company • Post Closing Dispute: • Pre-closing VC investor disclosures compromised • Seller’s counsel cannot represent VC investors • Either Waive Conflict of Interest or Retain Separate Investor Counsel 11
47. M&A ISSUES/SELLING SHAREHOLDER IMPLICATIONS • Working Capital Issues • Definition of “working capital” • Consequences of Late Delivery of Buyer’s Working Capital Statement & Additional Response Time • Indemnification Claim and/or Working Capital Adjustment • Tax Issues •Shareholder Representative to Review and Approve Tax Returns covering Pre-Closing Activity • Tax Liabilities Subject to Dispute Resolution Mechanism in Merger Agreement 12
48. M&A ISSUES/SELLING SHAREHOLDER IMPLICATIONS • Joint & Several Liability • Joint Obligors – Do not rely on common law contribution rights • Contribution Provision & Letter of Transmittal • Joinder and Contribution Agreements • Indemnification • “Damages” – Always Define to avoid claims for special, incidental, consequential or punitive damages • Survival of Shareholder Representations and Warranties • Carve Outs – Time limitations, Caps and Baskets 13
49. LITIGATION EXPENSE FUNDS •According to SRS: • 2 Out of 3 Deals have Expense Funds •The Average Expense Fund is over $268,000 •Expense Funds Range between $25,000 and $1M •The Average Expense Fund is <1% of the Sale Price • Why set up an Expense Fund? •Deters Buyer Claims •Provides Options for Selling Shareholders •Fair and Equitable Allocation of Expenses 14
77. Target is subject to SEC reporting requirements
78. Seller will pursue litigation against BOD and management, not public shareholders• Private Company M&A • Heavily negotiated shareholder representations/idemnity • Escrows and Holdbacks are usually required to protect Buyer from breaches/working capital differentials 21
79. SHAREHOLDER REPRESENTATIVE •Shareholder Representative •Speaks and Acts on Behalf of Selling Shareholders if post-closing claim for Indemnification or post-closing purchase price adjustments are made • Role assumed by one of Selling Shareholders or Third Party Agent • Engagement Letter •Scope of Authority • Expense Fund Parameters • Can Appoint Selling Shareholder “Advisor” • Indemnity: Who’s on the Hook? 22
87. Have Discussion at the Investment Stage to Avoid Shareholder Controversies Upon Sale24
88. Fiduciary Duties for VC Board Members Fiduciary Duties in Considering Acquisition Proposal Duty to Shareholders, not VC Funds Duty is same whether Target is Public or Private Minority Shareholder Claim Risk in Certain Situations Down Round or Cram Down Financings Former Laid-Off Employee Shareholders Hostile Significant Shareholder without Board Seat Fiduciary Duty Compliance and Recordkeeping are Key to Successfully Defend Against Minority Shareholder Lawsuits 25
89. Fiduciary Duties for VC Board Members Troubled Company Issues • If in “Zone of Insolvency,” Directors Duty is to Maximize Value for Whole Enterprise (including creditors) • Look for Warning Signs of Insolvency • Ensure Adequate Decision-making Processes • Document Good Faith Exercise of Business Judgment • Consult Counsel, Restructuring and Valuation Experts • Demand Management Accountability • Consult Creditors • Avoid Insider Transactions 26
90. Fiduciary Duties for VC Board Members Business Judgment Rule – Delaware and California Duty of Care Avoid Haste Carefully Review of All Relevant Material Seek Out Relevant Information from Management Ask Questions and Test Accuracy of Information Rely on Expert Advice Advisors Should be Unbiased and Competent Observe Corporate Formalities and Document Deliberations 27
91. Fiduciary Duties for VC Board Members Duty of Loyalty • Duty Owed to Corporation and its Shareholders • Prohibits “Self-Dealing” • In re Trados(Del.Ch. 2009) – Director could breach fiduciary duty by improperly favoring interests of preferred over common shareholders who received no consideration - Implement Process to Represent Common Shareholder Interests - Drag Along Rights Alone May be Insufficient Good Faith - Duty to Act in a Reasonable and Deliberate Manner and in the Best Interests of the Corporation 28
107. Reorganization Expenses – distinguish between Target expenses and Target Shareholder expenses (Rev. Rul. 73-54)
108. Creeping B – old and cold stock purchased for cash should not be integrated with stock exchangeAcquisition of stock of Target, by Acquiror in exchange for Acquiror voting stock Acquiror needs control of Target immediately after the acquisition Control = 80% by vote and 80% of each class
109.
110. “Substantially All” – at least 90% of FMV of Net Assets and at least 70% of FMV of Gross Assets
112. 20% Boot Exception – Acquiror can pay boot (non-stock) for Target assets, up to 20% of total consideration; liabilities assumed are not considered boot unless other boot exists
117. TAXABLE STOCK PURCHASES 34 Cash Reverse Triangular Merger Treated as Stock Sale T Shareholders Cash T P Merger Target Survives S Shareholders have gain or loss P takes cost basis in Target shares Key: T = Target P = Acquiror S = Merger Sub
118. CASH FORWARD MERGER 35 T Shareholders Asset sale followed by liquidation of Target Target has gain on sale Target shareholders have gain on liquidation (unless 332 applies) P takes cost basis in Target assets T P Merger P Survives Variation with Merger Sub: T Shareholders T P Merger Sub Survives S Key: T = Target P = Acquiror S = Merger Sub