Individual Experts in Business Valuation
- Aswath Damodaran
Overview: Aswath Damodaran, a professor of finance at the Stern School of Business at New York University, is widely regarded as an authority on valuation. He has published numerous books and papers on the subject and is a sought-after speaker and consultant.
Key Contributions:
- Author of several influential books, including "Damodaran on Valuation" and "The Little Book of Valuation."
- Extensive academic research and practical applications in valuation.
- Renowned for his valuation models and tools, widely used by professionals.
- Shannon Pratt
Overview: Shannon Pratt is a prolific author and recognized expert in business valuation. He has contributed significantly to the field through his writings, research, and practical expertise.
Key Contributions:
- Author of "Valuing a Business" and other seminal texts on business valuation.
- Founder of Shannon Pratt Valuations, a leading valuation firm.
- Extensive experience in litigation support and expert witness testimony.
- Roger Grabowski
Overview: Roger Grabowski is a managing director at Duff & Phelps and a prominent figure in the valuation industry. He has authored numerous books and articles on valuation topics and is highly respected for his expertise.
Key Contributions:
- Co-author of "Cost of Capital: Applications and Examples" and other key texts.
- Significant contributions to valuation methodologies and cost of capital research.
- Extensive experience in valuation for financial reporting, tax, and litigation.
- Chris Mercer
Overview: Chris Mercer is the founder and CEO of Mercer Capital, a leading valuation and financial advisory firm. He is a recognized expert in business valuation, particularly in the areas of buy-sell agreements and fair market value.
Key Contributions:
- Author of "Buy-Sell Agreements" and other influential books.
- Extensive experience in valuing closely-held businesses and providing litigation support.
- Thought leader in the valuation industry, regularly speaking at conferences and seminars.
Leading Valuation Firms
- Duff & Phelps (A Kroll Business)
Overview: Duff & Phelps, now part of Kroll, is a global leader in valuation and corporate finance advisory. The firm is known for its rigorous methodologies and comprehensive valuation services.
Key Services:
- M&A advisory
- Business and asset valuation
- Financial reporting valuation
- Tax services
- Dispute and legal management
- Ernst & Young (EY)
Overview: Ernst & Young, one of the Big Four accounting firms, provides a wide range of professional services, including comprehensive valuation for M&A, financial reporting, and strategic planning.
Key Services:
- Business valuation
- Financial and tax due diligence
- Fairness opinions
- Intangible asset valuation
- Purchase price allocation
- PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)
Overview: PwC offers extensive valuation services integrated with their broader advisory, tax, and assurance services. Their approach combines technical expertise with deep industry insights.
Key Services:
- Business and asset valuation
- Fairness opinions
- Transaction advisory
- Intangible asset valuation
- Dispute resolution and litigation support
- Deloitte
Overview: Deloitte provides comprehensive M&A advisory and valuation services, leveraging its global network and industry-specific knowledge to deliver tailored solutions.
Key Services:
- Business valuation
- Purchase price allocation
- Fairness and solvency opinions
- Financial reporting valuation
- Tax valuation
- KPMG
Overview: KPMG is renowned for its rigorous approach to valuation, offering detailed assessments and advisory services across various industries and geographies.
Key Services:
- M&A advisory
- Business and asset valuation
- Fair value measurement
- Intangible asset valuation
- Tax advisory and compliance
- Houlihan Lokey
Overview: Houlihan Lokey is a global investment bank specializing in M&A, restructuring, and financial advisory services. The firm is particularly recognized for its valuation expertise.
Key Services:
- M&A advisory
- Valuation and financial opinions
- Fairness and solvency opinions
- Purchase price allocation
- Financial restructuring
- BDO
Overview: BDO offers personalized valuation services, combining global reach with local expertise to deliver accurate and reliable assessments for M&A, financial reporting, and strategic planning.
Key Services:
- Business and asset valuation
- Purchase price allocation
- Fairness opinions
- Financial reporting valuation
- Litigation support and dispute resolution
Conclusion
Business valuation experts and firms play a critical role in the success of M&A transactions, strategic planning, and financial reporting. Renowned experts like Aswath Damodaran, Shannon Pratt, Roger Grabowski, and Chris Mercer have significantly contributed to the field through their research, writings, and practical expertise. Leading valuation firms like Duff & Phelps, EY, PwC, Deloitte, KPMG, Houlihan Lokey, and BDO provide comprehensive services that ensure accurate valuations, informed decision-making, and successful business outcomes. Whether for buying or selling, these experts and firms offer the insights and support necessary to navigate the complexities of business valuation.