Episode Description:

Explore the complexities of private equity's strategic approaches to buying and selling across fluctuating market cycles in this episode of "Best But Never Final." Hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney unpack the essence of private equity operations amidst economic uncertainties, offering a rich discussion on how to maximize outcomes regardless of the market's condition. From the anticipation of black swan events to the tactical maneuvers for both acquisition and divestment, this conversation provides a foundational understanding of private equity's resilience and adaptability.

Key Highlights:

• 2:26 - Current Market Analysis: Lloyd and Doug share their perspectives on being net buyers or sellers in today's economic environment.
• 15:46 - Strategies for Selling: Unveiling tactics to enhance asset value amidst market fluctuations.
• 27:42 - Acquiring with Intent: Discussing the structuring of deals to ensure success in an uncertain market.
• 37:49 - Valuation and Engagement: Highlighting the importance of accurate valuation and building strong relationships for effective deal-making.
• 45:07 - Deal Structuring and Capital Strategy: Exploring innovative approaches to capital and transaction structuring within private equity.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

In this episode of "Best But Never Final," hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, Sean Mooney, and special guest Dave Roberts from Houlihan Lokey explore the shifting landscape of M&A markets and the strategic maneuvers private equity firms employ in response.

Episode Highlights:

• 1:04 - Introduction of Dave Roberts and the evolving M&A market's impact on deal flows.
• 9:47 - Performance insights of private equity portfolios amid economic fluctuations.
• 15:11 - Examination of the backlog in deal introductions and the disconnect between buyer and seller expectations.
• 22:00 - The critical role of sponsor coverage in investment banking for bridging between private equity firms and market opportunities.
• 38:03 - Strategies for private equity firms to effectively engage with sponsor coverage professionals and optimize deal outcomes.

For more information on Houlihan Lokey, go to https://hl.com/
For more information on Dave Roberts, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-roberts-hl

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

In this episode of "Best But Never Final," join Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney as they navigate the choppy waters of today's economic landscape and its implications for private equity portfolio companies. Amidst moderate inflation, groundbreaking technological advancements, and significant geopolitical risks, our hosts dissect how these factors are influencing the strategic direction and operational decisions within their portfolio companies. From analyzing consumer sentiment to unraveling the resilience found within the lower middle market, this episode offers a panoramic view of economic resilience and adaptability.

Listeners will gain insights into:

• 1:27 - An overview of current economic indicators and their impact on the private equity sector.
• 3:35 - The paradox of strong consumer sentiment amidst economic headwinds and what it signals for businesses.
• 9:47 - Real-world reflections on portfolio company performance in the face of economic flux, shared by Doug and Lloyd.
• 15:19 - Strategic moves made by portfolio companies during economic downturns, emphasizing the value of investing in top-tier talent and cutting-edge technology.
• 22:24 - Approaches to nurturing revenue growth and enhancing operational efficiencies during uncertain times, with a focus on innovative pricing and marketing strategies.
• 34:11 - A deep dive into optimizing operations and managing costs, highlighting the importance of continuous process improvement and prudent capital allocation.
• 41:29 - Examining the role of acquisitions and capital structure strategy as tools for navigating economic uncertainty, advocating for a conservative approach to leverage and emphasizing the importance of banking relationships.

This episode is essential listening for anyone looking to grasp the economic nuances affecting private equity and how seasoned veterans like Lloyd, Doug, and Sean utilize this knowledge to strengthen and expand their portfolio companies. Tune into "Best But Never Final" for an insightful journey into the strategies that guide private equity through today's economic challenges and opportunities.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net