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Mindy Diamond on Independence: Brad Bueermann on M&A, Growth and Maximizing Enterprise ValueMindy Diamond on Independence: Brad Bueermann on M&A, Growth and Maximizing Enterprise Value

FP Transitions CEO Brad Bueermann discusses key aspects of M&A and succession, the most important factors around multiples, valuations, and maximizing enterprise value, and more.

Fidelity’s latest M&A report signaled that despite headwinds of a turbulent market and interest rates, as well as the regional banking crisis, the M&A wave is still flowing strong.

The first quarter of 2023 saw 67 acquisitions—10 more than the previous quarter’s 57— representing some $83.5 billion in client assets.

No doubt, there’s still a hunger for quality firms with strong P&Ls and growth trajectories.

And it’s this very space that firms like FP Transitions play in.

The firm was founded in 1999 by industry-legend David Grau Sr., who literally wrote the book on Buying, Selling and Valuing Financial Practices back in 2016.

FP Transitions became one of the standouts in the wealth management world, specializing in the valuation and analysis of the intangibles that make advisory practices unique and valuable.

They do this by employing strategies that build upon a lifetime of work and trusted client relationships—and executing a succession plan designed to both realize value for the founder and perpetuate the business for the next generation of advisors.

Earlier this year, FP Transitions reached a milestone, performing over 15,000 independent business valuations.

The firm’s CEO, Brad Bueermann, joins Louis Diamond to discuss all that and more, including:

  • FP Transitions’ background—and how it developed its unique methodology;

  • The firm’s own next-gen transition from David to Brad—and how the processes they use with wealth management clients played an integral role;

  • Where firm valuations are today—and what he expects for the future;

  • What buyers were most concerned about in the past—and how that differs today;

  • Multiples and enterprise value—and what business owners need to pay attention to in order to maximize both;

  • Identifying the value drivers—and how to develop a plan to increase value over time; and

  • Creating a win-win scenario in a transaction—and why FP Transitions sees this as the best possible route for all sides.

It’s an episode filled with practical advice and intelligent conversation around the evolution of independent firms with key takeaways on achieving maximum enterprise value.

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About the Authors

Mindy Diamond

Columnist: Career Moves, CEO, Diamond Consultants

https://www.diamond-consultants.com/

Mindy started Diamond Consultants in 1998 from her bedroom floor—and today it’s known as one of the leading consulting and recruiting firms for the industry’s top financial advisors. Drawing from her own entrepreneurial experience, the firm employs a unique relationship-driven approach that helps individuals and organizations achieve what she refers to as their “Best Business Lives.” Mindy hosts the popular podcast series Mindy Diamond on Independence, is a prolific writer and regular media contributor.

For more information, visit: https://www.diamond-consultants.com/team/mindy-diamond/

Louis Diamond

President, Diamond Consultants

Louis has guided many of the top teams in the industry as they’ve transitioned to other employee-model firms or launched RIA firms. And as a next-gen leader himself, Louis has a passion for representing complex multi-generational teams. His strong business acumen, refined analytical skills and objectivity also make Louis an ideal advisor to independent business owners who want to accelerate growth via mergers, acquisitions and recruiting.

A George Washington University magna cum laude graduate with a BBA degree in Finance and International Business, Louis’s resume includes roles at Ernst & Young, Morgan Stanley and UBS.

For more information, visit: https://www.diamond-consultants.com/team/louis-diamond/