M&A Advisor Podcast

Before achieving his greatest success, Ricardo Lacerda navigated the peak of global finance at Goldman Sachs and Citibank during historic world crises; however, after launching BR Partners in the wake of the 2009 financial collapse, he transformed from a corporate banker into the architect of Latin America’s leading independent investment bank.  Ricardo Lacerda (Founder and CEO of BR Partners) joins Jack Butler to share a rare look behind the headlines of a lifetime achievement career. From a credit analyst in São Paulo to leading Latin American investment banking for global giants, Ricardo discusses the "village" required to build a firm and the critical role of resilience when the world’s financial markets are in turmoil.  What You’ll Learn: The essential role of mentorship in reaching the top of the M&A industry.  How global events like 9/11 and the 2008 financial crisis dictate career pivots.  The psychology of moving from institutional safety to independent entrepreneurship. Why "lifting others" is the primary responsibility of a dealmaking leader.  Connect with the Expert: Ricardo Lacerda: Founder and CEO, BR Partners #MAAdvisor #InvestmentBanking #BrazilMA Main Takeaways: The Power of the Village: Success in high-stakes M&A is never a solo act; it requires a village of partners, mentors, and family support.  Crisis as a Catalyst: Major market disruptions are often the moments that force the most productive and necessary career shifts.  Mentorship Responsibility: Senior leaders have a duty to actively lift up emerging leaders in the industry. Timestamps: [00:01:45] – The significance of honoring emerging leaders in the M&A industry. [00:03:00] – Why leadership is about lifting others up and building a "village."  [00:04:00] – Ricardo’s early days in Brazil and his start at Chase Manhattan.  [00:07:00] – The impact of September 11th on his US-focused career trajectory. [00:19:00] – Navigating hierarchy and cultural differences in Latin American markets. [00:26:00] – The decision to leave Citibank to found BR Partners during a global crisis.  M&A Alerts: Subscribe Here LinkedIn: Follow Us Facebook: Connect Here YouTube: Watch More Masterclasses

In this special keynote from the 2025 FOD Summit, moderator Roger Ado sits down with a distinguished group of industry icons: the original Thomas Farrell Memorial Award Honorees. Featuring Jacob Voorhees (2025 Winner), David Deutsch, Tony Caudle, Bobby Blumenfeld, and Ramsey Goodrich, this conversation moves beyond the balance sheet to the human side of dealmaking. Discover the "dairy farm ethics" that drove Jacob Voorhees to build a leading firm, and revisit David Deutsch’s visionary 1984 address at Columbia Business School. Learn why mentorship and a "relational" approach are the true drivers of a career that spans decades. #MAAdvisor #MandA #Leadership #BusinessEthics #ThomasFarrellAwardThe 2025 Honoree: Introducing Jacob Voorhees and the significance of the Thomas Farrell Memorial Award.Relational Bios: Why Jacob Voorhees leads with his personal story of being born on an Iowa dairy farm to "hippie nomad" parents.The Accidental Banker: How a pre-vet student became a "dairy farmer investment banker" for the world's largest milk companies.A Visionary Start: Roger Ado revisits David Deutsch’s 1984 Columbia Business School speech.The Ethics of Finance: Tony Caudle on balancing his role as a CEO with teaching business ethics as an adjunct professor.Industry Stalwarts: Bobby Blumenfeld and Ramsey Goodrich on the evolution of the M&A community.M&A Alerts: Subscribe to your definitive daily source for premium transaction news. https://maadvisor.comLinkedIn: Connect with our global community of dealmaking professionals. https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisorFacebook: Follow the latest trends and stories from the industry’s influential figures. https://www.facebook.com/maadvisorShow NotesYouTube: Watch masterclass strategies and exclusive interviews on our official channel. https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor

Is your deal team tracking the right metrics, or just the loudest ones? While financials tell part of the story, they often mask the "Inhomogeneous Structure" that devalues a target before the ink is dry. In this briefing, we deconstruct the operational roadmap required to bridge the gap between a "good" deal and a "great" one.👉 Stay ahead of the next cycle. Subscribe to M&A Alerts for your definitive daily source of premium transaction news: https://maadvisor.com.Executive Summary: Roger Aguinaldo sits down with Henning Bruns and Gizay Unal (Komoto Consulting), along with Behzad Mansouri (Charles Schwab), to reveal the "Signal" beneath the noise in manufacturing acquisitions. Learn why 20% return on sales can hide a crumbling operational foundation and how to stabilize targets through a "four-pillar" approach.Technical Index (Shownotes):0:00 – The M&A Advisor: Connecting the Dealmaking Elite 02:45 – The Operational "Oddball": Why Financials Aren't Enough05:15 – Inhomogeneous Structures: The Hidden Cost of Redundant IT 08:30 – The Footprint Trap: Consolidation and Geographic Realities11:45 – Automotive Supply Chain: Scaling and Harmonization Potential14:20 – The People Problem: When Leadership is the Barrier to Growth17:35 – Stabilization Pillars: Implementing "Lean" in Modern Manufacturing21:10 – Final Outlook: Building a Forward-Looking Advisory Strategy Connect With Our Global Community: 🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisor 🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor 🔹 YouTube: Subscribe for Masterclass Strategies: https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor#MandA #OperationalExcellence #PrivateEquity #Manufacturing #MAAdvisor

Many investors find themselves caught between aggressive capital strategies and the slow friction of regulatory oversight. In this episode, Wilbur Ross—legendary restructuring expert and former US Secretary of Commerce—shares masterclass lessons from his memoir, Risks and Returns. Discover how to navigate the "speed gap" between private sector execution and government bureaucracy, and why mastering the "three buckets" of operations, finance, and policy is no longer optional for the modern dealmaker. Learn how to identify hidden value in distressed assets and build a resilient strategy for a high-interest-rate environment. Watch now and sharpen your edge at MAAdvisor.com.#MAAdvisor #DistressedInvesting #Restructuring #WilburRossWhy Risks and Returns is the essential field guide for today’s dealmakerThe 1970s vs. 2025: Comparing high-rate environments and restructuring cyclesThe Speed Gap: Why private sector decisiveness clashes with government frictionThe "Three Buckets" Framework: Integrating Operations, Finance, and PolicyLessons from Rothschild: Developing the instinct for bankruptcy and turnaroundsWhy operational improvement is the only sustainable path to PE returnsThe geopolitical lens: How global trade shifts impact middle-market M&AAnnouncement: Exclusive pre-signed memoirs at the 2026 Distressed Investing SummitM&A Alerts: Subscribe to your definitive daily source for premium transaction news. https://maadvisor.comLinkedIn: Connect with our global community of dealmaking professionals. https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisorFacebook: Follow the latest trends and stories from the industry’s influential figures. https://www.facebook.com/maadvisorShow NotesYouTube: Watch masterclass strategies and exclusive interviews on our official channel. https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor

Is your leadership philosophy built on a "Signal" or just market noise? 📡 While many focus strictly on the exit, lifelong entrepreneur George Zimmer reveals why the most enduring deals are driven by operational passion and employee-centric scaling. In this briefing, we deconstruct his transition from a $2.5B public market cap to the agile, online model of Generation Tux.👉 Stay ahead of the next cycle. Subscribe to M&A Alerts for your definitive daily source of premium transaction news: https://maadvisor.comExecutive Summary: Roger Aguinaldo sits down with George Zimmer at the New York Athletic Club to discuss the "Secret Sauce" of a resounding retail success and the hard lessons of being fired from the company he founded. Zimmer provides a technical roadmap for navigating disagreements with the board, the realities of taking a company private, and why he has no interest in returning to the public markets.Technical Index (Shownotes):0:00 – The M&A Advisor: Connecting the World's Dealmaking Elite01:45 – Entrepreneurial Roots: From Traveling Salesman to Retail Icon04:10 – The "Secret Sauce": Prioritizing Employees Over Money Managers ⚙️07:30 – The 2013 Pivot: Board Disagreements and the $2.5B Market Cap Realities10:15 – The Buyout Trap: When Going Private Threatens the Board of Directors13:40 – Disruptive Trends: How AI is Revolutionizing Modern "Clienteling" Systems16:20 – Strategic Partnerships: The Revenue-Share Model with David’s Bridal & Disney19:05 – Legacy & Leadership: Why Career is Only One-Third of Life’s SuccessConnect With Our Global Community: 🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisor 🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor 🔹 YouTube: Subscribe for Masterclass Strategies: https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor#MandA #GeorgeZimmer #Dealmaking #Entrepreneurship #MAAdvisor

In the high-stakes world of AI and technology M&A, most deals fail not because of financial engineering, but because of a lack of cultural alignment. In this episode, Puneet Arora (EY-Parthenon) and Satish Raman (Fractal) discuss the "three Cs"—culture, comfort, and chemistry—that dictate the success of hyper-growth integrations. Learn how to navigate the shift from historical data to predictive AI and why maintaining transparency is the ultimate tool for preserving deal value. Master the human side of the transaction and ensure your next deal delivers its promised synergy. Watch now and sharpen your edge at MAAdvisor.com.  #MAAdvisor #MandACulture #AITransactions #DealMaking Show Notes Introduction to Fractal: 25 years of evolving from analytics to AI Beyond the numbers: Defining culture, comfort, and chemistry in M&A Why cultural friction is the #1 killer of post-merger synergies The "Pre-LOI" phase: Assessing leadership alignment early Moving from descriptive to predictive: The impact of AI on due diligence How AI identifies hidden revenue leakage and growth opportunities Comfort in the "War Room": Building trust between founders and PE The transparency mandate: Preventing value leakage through communication Managing talent retention in tech-heavy transactions Strategy for 2026: Why culture will remain the competitive differentiator M&A Alerts: Subscribe to your definitive daily source for premium transaction news. https://maadvisor.com  LinkedIn: Connect with our global community of dealmaking professionals. https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisor  Facebook: Follow the latest trends and stories from the industry’s influential figures. https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor  YouTube: Watch masterclass strategies and exclusive interviews on our official channel. https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor

Is a standard balance sheet fix enough to save a failing entity, or are you just delaying the inevitable "Chapter 22"? 📊 In this briefing, we explore why many modern restructurings fail to address the underlying business model and how "Band-Aid" deals from the pandemic era are finally coming due.👉 Stay ahead of the next cycle. Subscribe to M&A Alerts for your definitive daily source of premium transaction news: https://maadvisor.comExecutive Summary: Roger Aguinaldo sits down with Drew, a veteran Chief Restructuring Officer (CRO), and Susan of Foley & Lardner to deconstruct the "Brave New World" of distress. From the impact of tariff fluctuations on manufacturing to the residual debt in real estate, this conversation provides a technical roadmap for utilizing Chapter 11 as a strategic tool rather than a final resort.Technical Index (Shownotes):0:00 – The M&A Advisor: Thought Leadership for the Dealmaking Elite02:15 – The CRO Approach: Why "Walking the Plant" Beats Financial Modeling 04:50 – Consumer Confidence & Macro Stress: The 50/50 Recession Reality07:30 – The "Chapter 22" Trap: Why Fixing Debt Doesn't Fix the Business10:15 – Dividend Recaps & Private Equity: A Recipe for Future Distress?13:40 – Chapter 11 as a Tool: A Case Study in 100% Creditor Recovery16:55 – Alternative Structures: ABCs and Liability Management for the Middle Market19:20 – The "DOGE" Effect: Preparing Government Contractors for Restructuring21:45 – Final Outlook: Staying Decisive in an Uncertain MarketConnect With Our Global Community: 🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisor 🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor 🔹 YouTube: Subscribe for Masterclass Strategies: https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor#MandA #Restructuring #Chapter11 #PrivateEquity #BusinessStrategy #MAAdvisor

Stop wasting years in Chapter 11 litigation! Learn directly from Jay Goffman, the inventor of the pre-pack, how to save distressed companies quickly and cost-effectively. In this episode with Derek Hunter, Jay reveals the mindset shift from "warrior" lawyer to creative business problem-solver. Don't let your firm be left behind—master this mindset and accelerate your deal-making craft today. [0:02:00] Meet Jay Goffman, the pioneer and inventor of the pre-pack restructuring [0:03:00] The unplanned journey: How a neurochemistry major stumbled into bankruptcy law [0:05:00] The key to success: Hard work, a creative streak, and the value of mentors. [0:06:00] Hiring for restructuring: Why a team-first, all-in mentality beats high grades alone. [0:08:00] The pre-pack origin story: Solving a multinational, multi-tier bond problem. [0:10:00] Thinking differently: The switch from multi-year litigation to a business transaction mindset. [0:11:00] The Midnight Memo: Jay writes the first-ever proposal for a pre-packaged plan. [0:14:00] The first pre-pack: Succeeding with Mex Telex despite objections and no examples. [0:15:00] The difference: Comparing the "warrior" versus the "business deal" restructuring approach. [0:16:00] Liability Management: It's not new, but it needs to truly fix the problem [0:18:00] The Pre-Pack Mindset: A technique to fix any problem quickly and cost-effectively [0:19:00] The evolution: Why it's possible for operational, international, and even mass tort cases. [0:21:00] Global restructuring: Using US law firm retainers to leverage foreign cases. [0:23:00] Parting Advice: Be passionate, find mentors, and show genuine care for clients. Connect with the M&A Advisor community and stay on top of the latest trends and interviews: M&A Advisor: https://maadvisor.com M&A Alerts Newsletter: https://maadvisor.com/maalerts  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor

Before facing a complete liquidation due to irreconcilable governance friction and an unsustainable capital structure, Icon Aircraft’s stakeholders were stuck in a multi-year deadlock; however, after the expert intervention of Thomas McCabe, Sam Newman, and Neil Gupta, they successfully navigated a complex Chapter 11 process to preserve the value of a revolutionary aerospace product. Thomas McCabe (GlassRatner), Sam Newman (Sidley Austin), and Neil Gupta (SSG Capital)—break down the "Borders and Barriers" of the Icon Aircraft transaction. From navigating "shouting matches" in the boardroom to managing the complexities of a Chinese-invested US aerospace company, this episode is a masterclass in cross-border distressed M&A.   What You’ll Learn: The challenge of "incompatible worldviews" in cross-border partnerships. Why getting involved "too early" can be just as difficult as arriving too late. Strategies for using Chapter 11 as a tool for value preservation in highly distressed debt. The nuances of marketing a distressed asset to a global pool of Asian and European buyers. Connect with the Experts: Thomas McCabe: Senior Managing Director, GlassRatner Advisory & Capital. Sam Newman: Restructuring Partner, Sidley Austin. Neil Gupta: Managing Director, SSG Capital Advisors. #MAAdvisor #Restructuring #CrossBorderMA Main Takeaways: Cultural Alignment Matters: Governance friction between US-based founders and international investors can create "differently functional" relationships that stall growth. Restructuring as a Timeline: Successful exits often require years of "corporate counseling" before a formal bankruptcy or sale can occur. The "Cool" Factor vs. Capital: Even revolutionary products (like the amphibious Icon A5) can fail without a sustainable capital structure and a unified board. Timestamps: [00:01:30] – Introduction to the Icon Aircraft project and the "cool" amphibious product [00:03:55] – The "fire sale" sidebar and celebrating the deal closing on-site [00:06:30] – Meet the Team: Expertise in tech, life sciences, and special situations [00:08:30] – The Early Distress: The entry of the Chinese investment fund (PDSTI) [00:10:00] – Boardroom Friction: Navigating "shouting matches" and incompatible worldviews [00:11:15] – Hiring SSG: Transitioning to the April 2024 Chapter 11 filing [00:12:45] – Global Marketing: Challenges in dealing with Asian and European buyers  M&A Alerts: Subscribe Here LinkedIn: Follow Us Facebook: Connect Here YouTube: Watch More Masterclasses Task 5: Social Media Reels

Most insurance agency owners fear that rising interest rates have killed their exit valuations—but the data suggests otherwise. In this episode, Jason Murgio and Steven Nigro reveal why the fee-based distribution market remains red-hot despite economic friction.  Learn how to navigate the shift from risk-bearing carriers to high-margin agencies and where private equity is still deploying aggressive capital. Discover how to turn your insurance agency into a premium target in a high-demand, low-supply environment. Watch now and sharpen your edge at MAAdvisor.com  #MAAdvisor #InsuranceMA #AgencyValuations Show Notes Resilience of the 2025 insurance fee-based distribution market Why strategic and PE-backed groups remain aggressive buyers Navigating valuations in a non-zero interest rate environment The shift from balance-sheet risk to high-margin distribution Identifying high-quality insurance assets in a selective market Role of MGAs in modern insurance capital structures Consolidation trends: Small agencies vs. national platforms Talent and succession: The human capital side of M&A How AI is redefining carrier underwriting and agency distribution 2026 Outlook: Why the deal pipeline remains robust  Subscribe for your daily source of transaction news. https://maadvisor.com  Connect with our global community of dealmaking professionals. https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisor  Follow the latest trends and stories from the industry’s influential figures. https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor  Watch masterclass strategies and exclusive interviews on our official channel. https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor

In an era defined by rapid policy shifts and shifting consumer behavior, uncertainty has become the only constant in the restructuring world. In this episode, industry veterans Lisa Donahue and J. Gregory Milmoe join Richard Goldman to dissect the distress signals emerging in the electric vehicle, renewable energy, and oil and gas sectors.  From the impact of AI on professional services to the "genius tax" on high-tech talent, discover how leaders are evolving post-COVID to build more flexible, resilient organizations. Learn how to identify the "how" over the "what" to deliver real value in a complex economic environment. Watch now and stay ahead of the curve at MAAdvisor.com.  #MAAdvisor #Restructuring #EconomicOutlook #DistressedDebt Show Notes [00:02:00] Defining uncertainty as the primary theme of the 2026 restructuring market [00:03:00] Analyzing 26 electric vehicle bankruptcies in 24 months [00:05:00] The case for nuclear energy as a stable base load for clean power  [00:07:00] Oil and gas distress: Lower commodity pricing and capital intensity  [00:09:00] Predicting sector distress vs. long-term energy infrastructure needs  [00:12:00] AI and professional services: Moving from the "what" to the "how."  [00:15:00] Post-COVID leadership: The rise of sophisticated, nimble management [00:17:00] Workforce fallout: Immigration reform’s impact on construction and hospitality  [00:18:00] The "Genius Tax" and its potential drag on high-tech growth [00:20:00] Breaking educational barriers: Hiring for performance over degrees [00:22:00] Consumer sentiment: Watching the Michigan CPI and the "closed purse" effect [00:24:00] Legal limits: How Supreme Court rulings have clipped the wings of bankruptcy courts. [00:26:00] 2026 Outlook: Retail favorites, oil/gas combinations, and infrastructure consolidation.  Subscribe to your definitive daily source for premium transaction news. https://maadvisor.com Connect with our global community of dealmaking professionals. https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisor Follow the latest trends and stories from the industry’s influential figures. https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor   Watch master class strategies and exclusive interviews on our official channel. https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor 

Before entering 2025 with high expectations only to face a challenging first half and a sluggish deal volume, market participants struggled to find momentum in a complex economic landscape; however, after analyzing the recent surge in large-cap deals and integrating Gen AI into their due diligence processes, dealmakers are now equipped with the creative structures and technological speed needed to dominate the 2026 market.  EY leaders Adam Reilly and Brenda Ciampollilo break down the dichotomy of the current M&A market—where deal value is soaring while volume remains selective. From the rise of private credit to the transformative power of Generative AI in contract analysis, they provide a roadmap for navigating 2026’s sectoral shifts and supply chain realignments.   What You’ll Learn: Why 2025 started with "evaporating" tailwinds and how the market pivoted in Q3. The "Value vs. Volume" gap: Why large deals are returning while the middle market waits. How transaction structures are becoming more creative with JVs, alliances, and private credit. The reality of Gen AI in M&A: Using tech to read contracts faster without replacing human talent. Connect with the Experts: Adam Reilly: EY Brenda Ciampollilo: EY #MAAdvisor #Dealmaking2026 #GenAI #InvestmentBanking Main Takeaways: The Q3 Surge: While the first half of 2025 was challenging, a post-Labor Day surge saw deal values climb significantly, even as volume remained relatively flat.  Creative Capital: The massive rise in private credit, along with the use of joint ventures and alliances, is helping dealmakers overcome traditional financing hurdles. AI as an Accelerator: Gen AI is not a replacement for talent but a tool to make professionals "better, faster, stronger," particularly in high-volume document and contract review.  Supply Chain Shifts: Changes in global trade policy and tariffs are expected to spur investment as companies look to diversify or re-shore their supply chains.  Timestamps: [00:01:51] – Recapping 2025: From "bullish" expectations to a challenging first half. [00:03:02] – The Post-Labor Day Surge: Analyzing the 46% increase in deal value. [00:04:58] – Creative Transaction Structures: JVs, Alliances, and Private Credit. [00:11:15] – The 2026 Outlook: Why LPs are pressuring Private Equity to move capital. [00:13:21] – Sectoral Shifts: Tariffs, supply chains, and the future of industrial M&A. [00:18:15] – Gen AI in the Deal Room: Speeding up contracts and due diligence. [00:20:52] – The Human Element: Why AI makes us better but won't replace the expert.  M&A Alerts: Subscribe Here LinkedIn: Follow Us Facebook: Connect Here YouTube: Watch More Masterclasses

Institutional investors often misread the Latin American market as a monolith of volatility, leaving significant value on the table. In this episode, Alexandre Pierantoni (Kroll) and Ricardo Lacerda (BR Partners) break down the structural shift from currency risk to regulatory uncertainty in Brazil and the wider region.  Discover how local entrepreneurship and private capital are driving a record 1,400 announced transactions despite fiscal headwinds. Learn the "local advisor differential" essential for cross-border deal execution and strategic diversification. Turn regional complexity into a competitive advantage and secure long-term returns. Watch now and sharpen your global edge at MAAdvisor.com.  #MAAdvisor #LatinAmericaMA #CrossBorderDeals Show Notes Ricardo Lacerda’s 40-year perspective on Latin American banking Cross-border M&A efforts and the role of investment boutiques Momentum in Brazil: 1,400 announced transactions and sector growth Why long-term strategies outperform "in and out" multinational tactics The evolution from state-owned monopolies to private entrepreneurship Why 80% of Brazilian deals are now driven by local players Private capital’s dominance in the infrastructure, mining, and energy sectors Shifting risks: Moving from currency volatility to legal uncertainty Geopolitical context: Latin America as a prime diversification opportunity The diversification of investment pools from Europe, the US, and China The "local advisor differential" for successful regional dealmaking  Subscribe to your definitive daily source for premium transaction news. https://maadvisor.com   Connect with our global community of dealmaking professionals. https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-adviso r  Follow the latest trends and stories from the industry’s influential figures. https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor   Watch masterclass strategies and exclusive interviews on our official channel. https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor

The era of "cheap debt" that fueled a decade of dealmaking is officially over, leaving many portfolio companies with legacy capital structures that are no longer sustainable. In this episode, Roger Aguinaldo sits down with Dave Miller, Head of U.S. Restructuring at Elliott Management, to discuss the $70 billion firm's multi-strategy approach to distressed investing. Learn why "higher for longer" interest rates are triggering a fundamental shift from "amend and extend" tactics to true balance sheet restructuring. Discover how to identify value in distressed scenarios and stabilize your portfolio in a normalized rate environment. Watch now and sharpen your edge at MAAdvisor.com.  #MAAdvisor #Restructuring #DistressedDebt #CapitalStructure Show Notes Overview of Elliott Management’s $70B multi-strategy platform From 2008 to 2025: The evolution of the restructuring cycle The fundamental shift: Why rate normalization changes everything Corporate credit outlook: Managing the upcoming 2026 maturity wall The synergy between distressed investing and traditional private equity Beyond "Amend and Extend": The limits of liquidity management in 2025 Risk assessment in a non-zero interest rate environment Strategic advice for CFOs navigating distressed capital structures Outlook for 2026: The return of disciplined credit cycles M&A Alerts: Subscribe to your definitive daily source for premium transaction news. https://maadvisor.com  LinkedIn: Connect with our global community of dealmaking professionals. https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisor  Facebook: Follow the latest trends and stories from the industry’s influential figures. https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor  YouTube: Watch masterclass strategies and exclusive interviews on our official channel. https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor

A dealmaker’s most valuable asset is not their technology, but the depth of their strategic network. In this episode with Jonathan Adelson, industry veteran David Deutsch shares a masterclass on the "old school" principles of relationship building, mentorship, and career longevity. From starting at Lehman Brothers to founding a premier boutique firm, Deutsch breaks down how to manage a 30,000-contact CRM and why "playing in traffic" is the secret to attracting high-value opportunities. Founders and ambitious investment bankers will discover the "bet on yourself" mindset required to move from employee to MD and secure lasting influence in the market. Watch now to sharpen your edge at MAAdvisor.com.  #MAAdvisor #NetworkingStrategy #InvestmentBanking Show Notes [00:01:00] The importance of relationship building and mentorship in M&A. [00:02:00] David Deutsch’s 40-year career journey through illustrious Wall Street firms. [00:03:00] Learning "where the bond comes from" via corporate finance transition. [00:05:00] Mentorship lessons from the "Greed and Glory" era of Wall Street. [00:07:00] Why effective business development must begin 10 years before the meeting. [00:08:00] Transitioning from two physical Rolodexes to a 30,000-name digital CRM. Entrepreneurial strategy: Why Managing Directors should always bet on themselves. Training the next generation through 68 interns and strategic mentorship. Playing in traffic: How to attract accidental M&A opportunities and growth.  Subscribe to your definitive daily source for premium transaction news. https://maadvisor.com Connect with our global community of dealmaking professionals. https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisor Follow the latest trends and stories from the industry’s influential figures. https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor   Watch masterclass strategies and exclusive interviews on our official channel. https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor 

Founders, PE operators, and advisors face a reality where deal multiples have reset and lenders have tightened selectivity. In this episode, Jonathan Kelemen of The Beekman Group shares strategies for lower middle market private equity and healthcare services acquisitions. With $1.2 billion in AUM, Kelemen reveals how professional investors filter deal flow and manage portfolio cost pressures. Master collaborative post-close playbooks and use earn outs to bridge valuation gaps for a successful exit. Watch now to sharpen your edge and visit MAAdvisor.com for more.  #MAAdvisor #LowerMiddleMarket #PEInvesting Show Notes [00:04:00] Managing $1.2B in services sectors  [00:05:00] $40M checks for roll-up strategies  [00:06:00] Distribution-focused fundraising environment  [00:08:00] Multiples returning to historical norms  [00:09:00] Prioritizing organic over inorganic growth  [00:10:00] Commercial vs. direct lending trade-offs  [00:11:00] Pushing buyers for premium assets  [00:12:00] Avoiding drag on "B assets"  [00:14:00] Selective deal flow filtering strategies  [00:16:00] Essential management rollover alignment  [00:17:00] Validating cash flow via QofE  [00:18:00] Mitigating portfolio health insurance costs  [00:20:00] Defining post-close growth playbooks  [00:21:00] Bridging gaps with earn out structures  Subscribe to your definitive daily source for premium transaction news. https://maadvisor.com Connect with our global community of dealmaking professionals. https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisor Follow the latest trends and stories from the industry’s influential figures. https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor   Watch master class strategies and exclusive interviews on our official channel. https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor 

Most founders under $10M EBITDA assume no one is looking at their deals—and leave institutional money on the table. In this episode, Andrew Nussbaum reveals how Golden Circle Advisors brings private equity, strategics, private credit, and SBIC capital into sub-$5M EBITDA situations. Learn how to escape broker-level processes, access non-dilutive and minority equity options, and run a true end-to-end, white-glove sale. Discover how to turn an “overlooked” company into a competitive auction with multiple premium bids. Watch now and sharpen your lower middle market edge at MAAdvisor.com. Joe Mantone, U.S. Financial Institutions, News Desk Manager, Americas, S&P Global Market IntelligenceAndrew Nussbaum, Managing Director, Golden Circle Advisor #MAAdvisor #LowerMiddleMarketPE #FounderExits Show Notes [00:01:00] Serving lower middle market companies up to $10M EBITDA [00:03:00] Scaling institutional banking for underserved sub-$7M owners [00:04:00] $1M EBITDA millwork deal attracts Bain-backed buyer [00:06:00] Networking via national attorney and financial advisor road shows [00:07:00] Competing against business brokers with institutional-grade materials [00:08:00] Accessing non-dilutive capital and SBIC funds for founders [00:10:00] Value of a "white glove" end-to-end deal experience [00:11:00] Selling local sourdough companies to large global strategics [00:13:00] 10-day sprint to gather real-time buyer feedback  [00:14:00] Why macro trends invalidate two-year-old valuation comps  [00:15:00] Anonymous buyer discussions to protect owner privacy  [00:17:00] Land grab: Private equity and independent sponsor velocity [00:18:00] Why lower middle market M&A resists broader slowdowns [00:20:00] Rust Belt leadership: "Already PE-backed" mindset and quality  [00:21:00] Falling interest rates as a catalyst for owner sentiment  Subscribe to your definitive daily source for premium transaction news. https://maadvisor.com Connect with our global community of dealmaking professionals. https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisor Follow the latest trends and stories from the industry’s influential figures. https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor   Watch master class strategies and exclusive interviews on our official channel. https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor

Before attempting to navigate the complexities of international dealmaking, many investors were deterred by shifting regulatory landscapes and political instability; however, after applying the cross-border frameworks shared by Euan Rellie and Shawn Whiteside, they can now identify hidden opportunities in emerging corridors like Southeast Asia and India while protecting deal value through proactive cultural integration. Euan Rellie (Co-Founder of BDA Partners) and Shawn Whiteside (Founder of OneZero Solutions) dive into the "macro to micro" realities of cross-border M&A. Despite political volatility, the US remains a premier destination for sophisticated foreign capital. They discuss the decline of Chinese deal flow in the West, the surge of aggressive Japanese and Indian bidders, and why the "EBITDA trap" destroys deal value when culture is ignored.  What You’ll Learn: Why the US lower-middle market is increasingly targeted by sophisticated Asian bidders. The shift from China to the Japan and India corridors. How to "carve up risk and responsibilities" before the deal to avoid post-close chaos. The danger of acquirers disrupting the "secret sauce" of a target company's culture. Connect with the Experts: Euan Rellie: Co-Founder, BDA Partners Shawn Whiteside: Founder, OneZero Solutions Main Takeaways: US Resilience: Despite "hair-raising" politics, foreign bidders are undeterred because the US remains the global bellwether for technology and service innovation. Global Corridor Shifts: While Chinese investment in the US and Europe faces high friction, Japanese and Indian bidders have the capital and flexibility to move faster than they did a decade ago. Culture Over Cash Flow: Acquirers often fail because they understand the financial statements but don't grasp the culture that built the success, leading to disruption instead of growth. Timestamps: [00:01:30] – The macro landscape: Political and regulatory shifts in a dynamic world. [00:03:00] – The "Tenacity" of the USA: Why foreign bidders still want exposure to American businesses.  [00:05:00] – The Role of China: Why Chinese bidders are pivoting to global expansion outside the US and Europe.  [00:05:30] – The Rise of Japan & India: A new era of aggressive, flexible international buyers.  [00:15:30] – Avoiding Post-Close Chaos: Dividing risk and responsibilities before the deal. M&A Alerts: Subscribe Here LinkedIn: Follow Us Facebook: Connect Here YouTube: Watch More Masterclasses 

Founder and family-owned business owners often struggle to navigate the complex "Silver Tsunami" transition without leaving millions on the table. In this episode, Dena Jallbert of Align explores why private equity is aggressively targeting the lower middle market with buy-and-build strategies.  Learn to fix messy financials and address restrictive assignment clauses before they kill your deal. Transform your "hair-filled" business into a premium asset that attracts institutional-grade multiples. Watch now to master transaction readiness and visit MAAdvisor.com for more. Dena Jallbert, Founder and CEO, Align Business Advisory Services - alignba.comRichard Lorenzen, CEO, Fifth Avenue Brands - fifthavenuebrands.com #MAAdvisor #LowerMiddleMarket #BuyAndBuild Show Notes [00:01:00] Focus on $2M–$20M EBITDA founder-owned businesses [00:02:00] Three factors driving PE firms down market [00:03:00] Silver Tsunami: Boomers owning 67% of small businesses [00:04:00] Buy-and-build strategies vs. single large-cap acquisitions [00:05:00] Red-hot demand for "essential" service-based trade businesses [00:06:00] Quality gap: Messy financials and succession hurdles [00:08:00] Strategic education to bridge unrealistic valuation gaps [00:10:00] Consolidation trends in home services and cyber security [00:12:00] Navigating supply chain and tariff risks in manufacturing [00:14:00] Transaction readiness: Fixing "proverbial hair" before exit [00:16:00] 2026 outlook: The "Year of the Bull" for dealmaking  M&A Alerts: Subscribe to your definitive daily source for premium transaction news. https://maadvisor.com  LinkedIn: Connect with our global community of dealmaking professionals. https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-m&a-advisor  Facebook: Follow the latest trends and stories from the industry’s influential figures. https://www.facebook.com/maadvisor   YouTube: Watch master class strategies and exclusive interviews on our official channel. https://www.youtube.com/user/Maadvisor 

From tinkering with lawnmowers in a suburban garage to steering global financial giants through crisis and innovation—Eric Aboaf’s journey is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and the power of data-driven transformation.In this episode of the M&A Advisor Podcast, Roger Aguinaldo, Founder and CEO of The M&A Advisor sits down with Eric Aboaf, CFO of S&P Global, for a riveting conversation that spans engineering roots, Wall Street resilience, and the future of financial intelligence. Discover how Eric’s passion for “fixing things” evolved from go-karts in a Westchester garage to steering billion-dollar institutions through crisis and transformation.What you'll hear in this episode:• How engineering shaped Eric’s approach to business strategy• Behind-the-scenes insights from Citigroup during the financial crisis• The evolving role of CFOs in the age of AI and data• S&P Global’s vision for growth, innovation, and M&A strategy• Advice for emerging leaders in finance and dealmakingSeasoned dealmaker or rising star? This episode is your front-row seat to bold insights, sharp wit, and game-changing inspiration from one of the most dynamic financial minds in M&A.Tune in now to hear how curiosity, grit, and data-driven leadership can shape a career—and an industry.Attention M&A Professionals and Dealmakers! The M&A Advisor warmly invites you to join our industry experts and thought leaders at the 2025 Leadership in Dealmaking Summit on September 15th & 16th at the heart of vibrant New York, City. Hurry and register now! Click here:https://events.maadvisor.com/2025LeadershipInDealmakingSummitandhttps://events.maadvisor.com/2025FutureofDealmakingSummitDo you want to know more about The M&A Advisor? Please visit us at https://maadvisor.comLove our podcasts? Subscribe to our M&A Advisor Podcast in Spotify, Apple Podcast, and YouTube.Finally, subscribe to our email newsletter by clicking the link:https://maadvisor.com/maalerts/subscribeTill next time, stay tuned and happy dealing!