What Size Companies Do Private Equity Firms Typically Acquire? 

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If you’ve ever wondered whether your business is even “big enough” to catch a private equity firm’s attention, you’re not alone, it’s one of the most common questions we hear from owners exploring an exit. TL;DR: Most private equity firms acquire companies with $2 million to $10 million in EBITDA, though the exact range depends […]

RIA vs. Broker-Dealer: Which Structure Is Right for Your Advisory Business?

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Choosing between an RIA and a broker-dealer isn’t just a compliance question. It shapes how you get paid, who you’re accountable to, and what your business is actually worth. TL;DR: RIAs operate under a fiduciary standard and typically offer more independence and business value at exit. Broker-dealers provide infrastructure and product access but come with […]

How to Value Your RIA Before a Sale: What Buyers Actually Look At

Two business professionals shaking hands over a signed agreement during a successful business sale, acquisition, or partnership meeting.

Most RIA owners have a number in their head. A rough sense of what the firm is worth, usually based on AUM or what they heard a competitor sold for. Buyers have a completely different number, and the gap between the two is where deals fall apart. TL;DR: Buyers aren’t just paying for your assets […]

When Is the Right Time to Sell Your Registered Investment Advisor (RIA)?

Financial advisor presenting performance charts on a tablet during a client meeting, discussing investment or financial planning strategies.

Most RIA owners spend decades building a firm, then they spend about six months figuring out they should have started thinking about the exit years ago. If that’s where you are right now, you’re not alone, but the clock matters more than most people realize. TL;DR: There’s rarely a single “perfect” moment to sell your […]

Why Do Companies Outsource Human Resources?

Hands holding colorful human figures, symbolizing employee care, workforce support, diversity, and people management.

Most business owners end up outsourcing after the third time they had to personally handle a termination they weren’t sure was legally clean, got a letter from the DOL, or after their best employee quit and nobody could tell them why. The decision to outsource HR is usually a response to something that already went […]

What Are the Risks of Selling a Business Without an Advisor?

Red downward arrow striking wooden blocks spelling “RISK,” symbolizing business risk, financial loss, or market decline.

Most owners spend years building something worth real money, but ultimately, many of them then spend a few months trying to sell it on their own, and walk away with a fraction of what they deserved. TL;DR: Selling a business without an advisor exposes you to valuation errors, negotiation traps, and deal structures that quietly […]

How to Write a Business Proposal for Funding

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Securing funding is crucial for the growth and success of any business venture. One of the most effective ways to attract investors or lenders is by crafting a compelling business proposal. A well-written business proposal not only outlines your business plan but also demonstrates your credibility and commitment to the project. In this article, we’ll […]

Levered vs Unlevered Free Cash Flow

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In the realm of financial analysis, understanding the concepts of levered vs unlevered free cash flow is crucial for making informed investment decisions and accurately assessing a company’s financial performance. These two terms represent different perspectives on a company’s ability to generate cash after accounting for various expenses and obligations. TL;DR: levered and unlevered free […]