Rethinking the M&A Auction Process: A Wealth Management Perspective

About the Episode

The auction process is standard for M&A transactions, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only way to facilitate an acquisition. Get the inside scoop on a new way of bringing companies together for the best fit. Allen Darby details how his wealth management firm matches M&A buyers and sellers by focusing on long-term cultural fit. He explains why soft factors are critical and provides valuable insights into the M&A process, helping entrepreneurs make informed decisions about their businesses’ future.

“I don’t think you can measure culture. You experience it.”

Allen Darby

What You’ll Learn

  • Alternative Approach: The idea behind an auction is that it will drive a higher price, but a business is more complex than the financial factors that tend to drive auctions. 
  • Cultural Fit: Culture and cultural fit are more important than maximizing valuation in M&A deals, especially in the wealth management industry, where relationships are key.
  • Wealth Management Industry: Wealth management M&A deals have unique considerations, such as the fact that the seller typically remains involved in the business post-acquisition. 
  • Sell-Side Advisors: These advisors can improve the M&A process by taking the time to understand the needs and preferences of potential buyers, not just focusing on maximizing the seller’s outcome.

Topics Covered

What is involved in the M&A auction process? What are the downsides to an auction? [3:12]
How important is cultural fit? [10:38]
How can the potential cultural fit between the buyer and seller’s companies be determined? [14:45]
What other criteria are essential for M&A companies to consider in addition to cultural fit? [18:24]
How does the introduction between buyer and seller happen without an auction format? [30:24]
What is the next step in the M&A process after the introductory round? [35:58]
Where does the letter of intent (LOI) fit into the process? [41:10]
How can the “best deal” be defined? [44:40]
How does the acquisition proceed after the buyer and seller introductions have occurred? [50:04]

“The ‘best deal’ is the best combination of cultural fit, initial valuation, and the post-acquisition reality.”

Allen Darby

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Meet Our Guest

Allen Darby

Allen Darby

CEO, Alaris Acquisitions | Jupiter, Florida

Allen has been in the wealth management industry for three decades. He founded a highly successful firm that was one of the pioneers in assisting accounting firms to enter the wealth management business. Prior to launching Alaris in 2019, Allen led the outbound M&A activities for United Capital from 2012 to 2019. As a buyer advisor for United, he led the team that sourced over 25 acquisitions, culminating in United’s sale to Goldman Sachs. 

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