Registered Investment Advisor Making Strategic Acquisition

Challenge

A successful wealth management firm wished to acquire a competitor firm to nearly double its assets under management and add research capability. It also desired to convert to an LLC from a C-corporation structure prior to the acquiring the target. The company lacked the internal capacity to perform acquisition due diligence, integrate the target, and fully convert to US GAAP accrual basis accounting as now required.

Solution

Assisted in the conversion from a C-corp. to an LLC. Performed due diligence and valuation analyses to acquire the target firm. Obtained accounting and legal documentation, tracked all documents and responses, analyzed data and reported findings. Coordinated with attorneys and investment advisor. Reviewed purchase agreement and analyzed/recommended favorable working capital adjustment. The acquisition was completed successfully.

Post-acquisition, worked with controller to convert to full US GAAP accrual accounting, re-established chart of accounts, and integrate target company’s accounting operations. Established financial budgeting and forecasting with estimated tax adjustments for member tax planning. Provide quarterly review and forecasting, annual budgeting, and year end closing consulting on an on-going basis.

Acquisition proved successful resulting in a further doubling of assets under management and full payout of seller earn-out. Assisted with transition to wider employee ownership.