Corporate finance
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In the UK, the term 'corporate finance' generally refers to transactions in which capital is generated in order to create, develop, expand or acquire a business. It is typically associated with a corporate transaction that results in a revised equity structure or shareholder base, an ownership change in a business, along with the related issue underwriting, purchase or exchange of equity (and related warrants) or debt.
A corporate finance may be part of the following activities:
Mergers and acquisitions:
- Formulating an acquisition strategy, assessing targets and funding an acquisition.
- Undertaking negotiations with vendors and due diligence.
- Provision of advice on tax and the commercial aspects of deal structures.
- Implementation of a post-acquisition plan.
Management buy-outs/ins:
- Undertaking an assessment of the viability of a management buy- out proposition and business plan.
- Business valuation, deal structure, securing finance and tax planning.
- Project management of the transaction.
- Preparing the business for sale and developing an exit strategy.
- Undertaking research and making confidential approaches to potential buyers.
- Negotiating and project managing the transaction.
- Providing taxation and financial planning advice.
The range of roles involved in corporate finance might include:
- Corporate finance advisers: Generally working within an investment bank, accountancy/professional services firm or an independent advisory firm. Individual's may work as consultants.
- Reporting accountants: Accountants that work for the buyer, business investor or specialist investment fund to verify that the accounts of the target company are accurate and up-to-date.
- Lawyers: Providing specialist advise on corporate finance transactions.
- Private equity providers: Professionals involved with buying/selling/provision of finance to businesses.
- Debt providers/bankers: Specialists who are involved in corporate finance transactions.
- Brokers: Provide advice on and assist with raising capital for transactions.
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has a corporate finance faculty and is a large professional membership body that supports chartered accountants around the world.
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