logo

M&A guide and experience reports

Here you will find practical experience reports and guides from company buyers and sellers, as well as general information on company acquisitions and sales.

Business Succession as a Career Path for Craftsmen: Owning a Company Without Starting from Scratch

At least 125,000 craft businesses are seeking successors in the next five years. For qualified craftsmen – whether journeyman or master – this represents a concrete opportunity to own their own company: with an established customer base, a well-coordinated team, and without the risks of a startup.

craftsmanshipbusiness successioncompany takeovermaster craftsmanjourneymanself-employmentbuying a craft business

Business Succession: The Underestimated Way Out of Unemployment

3.07 million unemployed in Germany, while over 200,000 companies are urgently seeking a successor. Why taking over an existing business is a more realistic path to self-employment for many unemployed people than starting a new business – and how to succeed in making the transition.

unemploymentbusiness successionself-employmentbusiness start-upstart-up grantunemployment benefit Ibusiness acquisition

Start a Business or Take Over? An Honest Comparison for Academics on the Path to Self-Employment

Startup or mid-sized company acquisition – both paths lead to self-employment, but with very different risks, requirements, and time horizons. A structured comparison for academics seriously considering both options.

startupbusiness acquisitionbusiness successionMBIacademicsself-employmentcomparison

Engineers and IT Specialists as Business Buyers: Why Technical Graduates Are Ideal Successors for Medium-Sized Companies

The job market for engineers and IT specialists changed dramatically in 2025. What appears to be a crisis for many affected individuals is actually the gateway to an alternative career – as entrepreneurs. Why technical graduates structurally fit well with medium-sized companies and how the transition succeeds.

engineerITtechnicianbusiness acquisitionMBIbusiness successionmedium-sized companiesstructural changeautomotive

The First 6 Months After a Business Acquisition: What Really Matters

Closing is not the goal – it is the starting signal. What academic career changers must do right in the first months as new business owners, and which mistakes most often lead to failure.

business acquisitionMBIbusiness successionleadershipemployeesacademicsmid-sized companiestransition

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Unemployed as an Academic: How Financing a Business Acquisition Works

Severance pay, savings, KfW loan, seller financing: Those planning a business acquisition as an unemployed academic have more financing options than they think. A concrete overview of the key components and how they interact.

academicsbusiness acquisitionfinancingKfWMBIbusiness successionequityfunding

From Studies to Entrepreneurship: Which Academic Profiles Are Suitable for Business Succession

Engineer, IT graduate, business economist, or humanities scholar – which industries and types of companies match which academic backgrounds? A concrete overview for academics considering a business takeover.

academicsbusiness successionMBIengineerITbusiness administrationself-employmentbusiness acquisitionSME

Academic Unemployment 2025: What the Numbers Really Mean – and the Opportunities They Create

335,000 unemployed academics, record rate, AI transformation: The German academic labor market is undergoing structural change. A sober assessment of the data – and why an unexpected opportunity is emerging in the mid-sized business sector right now.

academicsunemploymentlabor market 2025statisticsstructural changeAIbusiness successionmid-sized businesses

Academics Unemployed: Why Business Succession Is the Underrated Fresh Start

335,000 academics will be unemployed in 2025 – a historic high. At the same time, hundreds of thousands of medium-sized companies urgently seek successors. This article explains why business succession is the strategically smartest alternative to traditional job applications for highly qualified job seekers.

academicsunemploymentbusiness successionbusiness acquisitionmedium-sized companiescareer

Business Succession Marketplaces in Germany: A Comprehensive Comparison of All Key Platforms

Where can you find companies for sale in Germany? A structured comparison of all relevant succession marketplaces and platforms – from nexxt-change to Viaductus – including strengths, weaknesses, and concrete recommendations.

business successionmarketplacesplatformsnexxt-changeDUBViaductuscompany acquisitioncomparison

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Effectively Using Business Succession Marketplaces: 7 Mistakes Most Buyers Make

Using a succession marketplace sounds simple. However, most prospective buyers use platforms like nexxt-change inefficiently – missing out on the best offers. Seven concrete improvements.

business succession marketplacesnexxt-changeViaductusbusiness acquisitionsearchtipsstrategy

8 Mistakes Most Commonly Made by New Business Successors in Germany

Business succession rarely fails due to the wrong company – but because of avoidable mistakes in the process. These eight mistakes are the most common at Viaductus. And how to avoid them.

business successionGermanymistakesbusiness acquisitionMBIdue diligencefinancing

Business Succession in Germany: Key Figures, Facts, and Pathways at a Glance

Over 200,000 companies are currently seeking a successor. What is behind this market, how large is it really, and what are the pathways to business succession? All important facts summarized.

business successionGermanySMEsbusiness acquisitionstatisticsoverview

SPD Inheritance Tax Reform 2026: What the FairErben Proposal Means for Business Succession

The SPD inheritance tax reform would largely abolish privileges for business assets. This deep dive analyzes the impact on family-internal successions versus company sales and presents empirical research on owner-managed versus PE-acquired companies.

Initial Contact in Business Acquisition: How to Properly Approach Business Owners and M&A Advisors

This guide explains how prospective buyers can craft a compelling initial contact in business acquisitions to generate willingness for dialogue.

initial contactbusiness acquisitionowneradvisor

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

How Business Owners Think When Selling Their Companies

In this episode of the viaductus podcast, Artur Morozas and Severin Borch discuss the psychology of business owners and the challenges involved in company acquisitions. Severin shares his experiences as an M&A advisor and highlights the most common fears and concerns of sellers, as well as the differences between younger and older business owners. Additionally, the importance of exit preparation and building trust between buyers and sellers is addressed.

Leading Under Uncertainty – What It Really Means to Become a Successor

Those who want to become successors must learn to deal with ambiguity and uncertainty. In this podcast episode, Artur Morozas and Max Späte discuss mindset, trust, and the first 100 days in succession.

From Engineer to Entrepreneur – Lessons from Klaus Bauer’s Succession

In this episode of the viaductus Podcast, Klaus Bauer discusses his career path, the challenges and experiences involved in taking over Hightech Electronic GmbH. He shares insights into the company search process, the importance of interpersonal relationships in succession, as well as financing strategies and personal learnings as a successor entrepreneur. Additionally, he provides valuable tips for aspiring successors and explains the services offered by his company.

Buy & Build in Industrial Marking and Succession Scouting - with Sönke Duetsch

Sönke Duetsch has already acquired two companies in industrial marking and continues to actively acquire more. From these experiences, his vocation as a succession scout has emerged – quickly and effectively finding the right company for the MBI candidate.

How to Successfully Acquire a Company with Little Equity

Jan Podubrin has already purchased his first company and is now the successor of Gall Maschinenbau GmbH. How did he find the company? Why did he face difficulties being perceived as a serious buyer by M&A advisors? What is his interim conclusion after 6 months as the successor? All this and much more in this exciting episode!

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Resilience in Company Search

Rouven Behge has been working in logistics for many years and now faces the significant challenge of taking over a company as a successor. In the interview, he discusses resilience in company search, the advantages of having deep industry knowledge, and why succession entrepreneurship is the best next step.

Sweeping Halls in Student Internships and Consulting: The Path to Becoming a Successor Entrepreneur

Alexander Rast is an aspiring successor entrepreneur and shares his journey towards this goal. What motivated him to take this path? What does he focus on when searching for a company? What are his biggest learnings?

Think Global, Act Local: Why the Mittelstand Is Attractive to International Leadership Talent

Prof. Dr. Alexander Zureck explains why the German Mittelstand represents an attractive alternative to large corporations for international executives and how management buy-ins open up new opportunities.

The Ultimate MBI Guide: 30 Essential Questions for Prospective Business Buyers

Which questions should I ask myself before starting my MBI journey?

GmbHinsolvencyselling

How I Bought a Company with Little Equity as an MBI Candidate

Jan Podubrin reports on his path to entrepreneurship and how he acquired a company with little equity.

LLCinsolvencyselling

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Which Investors Buy Indebted Companies?

What types of investors specialize in acquiring indebted and distressed companies? This article presents the different types of investors and shows how to find the right partner for your business.

Distressed InvestmentCompany SaleTurnaroundPrivate Equity

Selling a Company under StaRUG - Step-by-Step Guide

How can you sell your company under the StaRUG procedure? This detailed guide explains all steps, legal requirements, and practical tips for a successful sale in the stabilization process.

StaRUGcompany salerestructuringreorganization

Selling a GmbH Despite Insolvency – What Is Possible?

Is it still possible to sell a GmbH when insolvency is imminent? This article outlines the legal framework, risks, and strategies for managing directors in crisis.

GmbHinsolvencysale

The Step-by-Step Guide: How to Launch Profitable Vertical Communities in 90 Days

Practical guide for launching vertical-specific succession communities: From target group analysis through association partnerships to revenue generation. Includes templates and checklists.

Implementation GuideCommunity LaunchAssociation PartnershipsRevenue GenerationGo-to-MarketVertical Strategy

From Dentists to Franchise Operators: Vertical-Specific Succession Communities as a Goldmine

Detailed case studies demonstrate how decentralized succession platforms in healthcare, professional services, and manufacturing offer explosive growth opportunities. Concrete revenue models and implementation strategies.

Healthcare SuccessionDental Practice SalesProfessional ServicesManufacturing M&AVertical MarketsCase Studies

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Decentralized Succession Platforms in the USA: Vertical-Specific Ecosystems for Maximum Market Penetration

Why a centralized US succession platform would fail and how decentralized, vertical-specific communities with white-label technology can revolutionize the market. From healthcare to manufacturing.

Succession PlatformsVertical MarketsDecentralized SystemsWhite LabelB2B CommunitiesMarket Penetration

The Digitalization of Business Succession: Trends 2025

Business succession goes digital: AI-supported valuations, online matching, and virtual due diligence shape 2025. How the German Mittelstand adapts to new technologies.

Business SuccessionDigitalizationM&A TrendsAIMittelstand

Law Firm Succession in Germany: Why the Market Does Not Work

The German law firm market struggles with structural problems: personal networks dominate, online platforms fail, and successful successions remain a matter of luck. An analysis of the real challenges.

law firm successionselling a law firmtax consultancy successionlaw firm marketM&A legalpartnership law

Effective Succession Systems for Franchises in the USA: Structural Solutions for Multi-Unit Operators

US franchise operators face complex succession challenges: 70% have no succession plans, while multi-unit owners must manage additional franchisor compliance. Specialized systems provide relief.

Franchise SuccessionMulti-Unit OperatorsBusiness TransitionFranchise SystemsWhite Label SolutionsUSA Market

White Label vs Custom: Why Business Brokers Choose SaaS Platforms

Business brokers decide between white label and custom development. Why 73% of successful M&A platforms rely on SaaS solutions – comparing costs, time, and risks.

White LabelBusiness BrokerSaaS PlatformCustom DevelopmentM&A SoftwareMarketplace

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

What Does It Cost to Develop an M&A Marketplace?

Building a marketplace: From WordPress plugins to enterprise development. Technical complexity, chicken-and-egg problem, and hidden costs in marketplace development in 2025.

MarketplaceMarketplace DevelopmentB2B PlatformMarketplace CostsTechnology StackTwo-sided Market

How Complex Is It to Build a Business Exchange?

From Blazor overkill to WordPress plugins: The most common technical pitfalls in building business exchanges and why 60+ German platforms still fail.

Business exchangeMarketplaceTechnologyDevelopmentAgenciesLow-codeWordPress

New Mittelstand: The Leading Community for External Business Succession

Discover New Mittelstand - Germany's leading community for Search Funds and Entrepreneurship through Acquisition. Network, expertise, and smart capital for successful acquisitions.

New MittelstandSearch FundsBusiness SuccessionETAEntrepreneurshipCommunity

Alternative Financing Sources for Business Acquisitions: Crowdfunding, Revenue-Based Financing & More

Discover innovative financing methods beyond traditional bank loans – from crowdfunding to revenue-based financing for your business acquisition

Business AcquisitionFinancingCrowdfundingRevenue-Based FinancingAlternative FinancingM&A

Healthcare and Nursing: Succession Solutions in Regulated Industries

Expert Guide for Business Acquisitions in Healthcare – Mastering Compliance, Skilled Labor Shortages, and Demographic Change

HealthcareNursingBusiness SuccessionRegulationHealthcareM&A

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Remote Work and Hybrid Work Models: Impacts on Business Valuation and Succession

How Remote Work is Changing Business Valuation – Understanding and Leveraging Opportunities and Risks for Buyers and Sellers in Hybrid Work Models

Remote WorkHybrid Work ModelsBusiness ValuationSuccessionDigitalizationM&A

Inheritance Tax Reform 2025: Optimization Strategies for Family Businesses

Understanding and Leveraging the Current Inheritance Tax Reform – Tax Optimization for Family Businesses, Exemptions, and Succession Models in Detail

Inheritance TaxTax ReformFamily BusinessesBusiness SuccessionTax OptimizationOperating Assets

Buy Instead of Start: Why Acquiring a Business is the Better Alternative

Business Acquisition vs. Start-up: All Advantages, Challenges, and Strategic Considerations for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Seeking a Direct Path to Self-Employment.

Business AcquisitionStart-upSelf-EmploymentBusiness SuccessionSMEFinancing

Emotional Exit: Why More and More Entrepreneurs Sell Their Business but Remain as Managers

The trend of the Emotional Exit is revolutionizing business succession: Owners sell their company but continue to work as employed managing directors.

Emotional ExitManagement Buy-OutMBOBusiness SuccessionWork-Life BalancePartial Sale

Why Early Succession Planning Is Crucial for Your Family Business

An expert shares firsthand experience: How the lack of succession planning plunged a family business with 250 employees into crisis and why you must act today to save your life's work.

Succession PlanningFamily BusinessGenerational ChangeCorporate CrisisContingency Planning

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

The 10 Most Common Mistakes Made by First-Time Buyers in Business Acquisitions – and How to Avoid Them

Learn about the typical beginner mistakes first-time buyers make in business acquisitions and how to avoid them. With practical tips and checklists for a successful company purchase.

Business AcquisitionFirst-Time BuyersAvoiding MistakesDue DiligenceFinancingBusiness Valuation

The Largest Wealth Transfer in German History: 600,000 Companies Seeking Successors by 2028

How the Succession Wave in the German Mittelstand Creates Unique Opportunities for Buyers and Major Challenges for the Economy

Business SuccessionMittelstandWealth TransferDemographic ChangeM&A

7 Myths About Buying a Business That Hold You Back

The Biggest Misconceptions About Buying a Business Uncovered – Learn Why Business Acquisitions Are More Accessible Than You Think

Business AcquisitionSuccessionFinancingM&AEntrepreneurship

Company Acquisition Instead of Start-Up: The Practical Guide for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

A comprehensive guide for anyone looking to take over an existing business – from financing and due diligence to successful integration

Company AcquisitionSuccessionFinancingM&A

With These 7 Questions, I Can Test Whether I Should Become an Entrepreneur

These seven questions help you realistically assess your suitability as an entrepreneur and make an informed decision.

N/A

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Starting a Business Without Equity – Opportunities and Challenges

The dream of entrepreneurial independence does not necessarily have to begin with a startup. In fact, acquiring an existing company offers numerous strategic advantages that can significantly facilitate the path to self-employment. While starting from scratch with a clean slate may seem appealing, a sober assessment often reveals the benefits of a takeover to be more compelling. This article explores why purchasing a business can be the smarter route to self-employment and which aspects require particular attention.

N/A

Generate an M&A Longlist with AI – How to Find the Right Company to Acquire

Creating an M&A longlist is the first step toward a successful business succession. Viaductus uses AI and commercial register data to automatically identify suitable acquisition targets – including off-market opportunities.

M&AMBILonglistAI

What Should I Consider When Buying a Company for the First Time?

The first purchase of a company is a life-changing decision. There is much to learn, but also much that can go wrong. We show you what you should consider.

N/A

How Can the ERP Promotional Loan for SMEs (365/366) Optimally Finance Your Business Acquisition?

How can the ERP promotional loan for SMEs (365/366) optimally finance your business acquisition? Learn everything about the KfW funding programs for business acquisitions.

N/A

How Can the ERP Start-Up and Succession Loan (077) Optimally Finance Your Business Acquisition?

How can the ERP Start-Up and Succession Loan (077) optimally finance your business acquisition? Learn all about the KfW funding programs for business acquisitions.

N/A

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

How Can the ERP Start-Up Loan Optimally Finance Your Business Acquisition?

How can the ERP Start-Up Loan optimally finance your business acquisition? Learn all about the KfW funding programs for business takeovers.

N/A

Digitalization of SMEs with AI – How Medium-Sized Companies Benefit from VisionaryData

Digitize my SME with VisionaryData. Buy and sell companies with viaductus. Get informed now and receive suitable deal proposals. Send us your inquiry. 100% confidential and free of charge.

N/A

Generative AI as a Key Technology for Business Succession in the Skilled Trades

Generative AI as a key technology for business succession in the skilled trades. Learn everything about the policies and technological possibilities of generative AI in the succession process.

N/A

How Do I Finance the Acquisition of a Company?

How do I finance the acquisition of a company? Learn everything about the various financing options for business acquisitions.

N/A

Properly Valuing and Selling Craft Businesses

Properly valuing and selling craft businesses. Learn everything about the valuation of craft businesses and how to successfully sell them.

N/A

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Acquiring Companies (Almost) Without Equity: Strategies for MBI Candidates

Acquiring companies (almost) without equity: Strategies for MBI candidates. Learn everything about the valuation of craft businesses and how to sell them successfully.

N/A

Carve-Out: Successful Partial Sale Step by Step

Carve-Out: Successful Partial Sale Step by Step. Learn everything about the carve-out and how to execute it successfully.

N/A

Business Succession in the Skilled Trades: Challenges and Solutions for Licensed Enterprises

Business succession in the skilled trades: Challenges and solutions for licensed enterprises. Learn all about the challenges of succession in the skilled trades and the solutions available for licensed businesses.

N/A

Share Purchase Agreement - Detailed Explanation and Pitfalls

Share Purchase Agreement - Detailed Explanation and Pitfalls. Learn everything about the Share Purchase Agreement and how to negotiate it correctly. You will also discover which pitfalls to avoid.

N/A

Non-Compete Clause - Legal Structuring and Enforceability

Non-compete clauses are an important safeguard for companies. This article explains how to legally structure and enforce them correctly.

N/A

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Legal Enforcement of Non-Compete Clauses: Practical Tips

Legal Enforcement of Non-Compete Clauses: Practical Tips

N/A

What Should I Do If I Can't Find a Buyer for My Company?

The sales process has failed, and no new interested parties are in sight. What other options do I have?

N/A

When is the Optimal Time to Sell My Business?

The sale of a business is a complex process that is not only aligned with the current economic conditions but also depends on the individual situation of the seller. In this article, we will examine the various factors that influence the optimal timing for selling a business.

N/A

The Due Diligence Process for Foreign Investors in German M&A Transactions

Navigating due diligence is critical when acquiring German businesses. This comprehensive guide helps foreign investors understand the unique legal, financial, and operational aspects of German due diligence, highlighting key risk areas and providing practical strategies to ensure successful M&A transactions in Europe's largest economy.

Financing Options for International Buyers in the German SME Market

Navigating financing options is crucial for international investors looking to acquire German SMEs. This guide explores traditional bank financing, government support programs, seller financing, and alternative funding sources to help foreign buyers structure successful acquisitions in Germany's attractive Mittelstand market.

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

How to Buy a Business in Germany: A Comprehensive Guide

In today's dynamic economic landscape, buying an existing business in Germany presents a compelling alternative to starting from scratch. With its robust economy, strong infrastructure, and central European location, Germany offers attractive opportunities for business acquisition. This guide walks you through the essential steps, legal considerations, and cultural nuances you'll need to navigate when purchasing a German business.

Private Retirement Provision for Entrepreneurs: Strategies for Security Beyond the Sale of the Business

This guide presents effective retirement provision strategies for entrepreneurs who do not want to rely solely on the proceeds from the sale of their business. Learn how to create a stable financial foundation for your retirement using various provision models.

N/A

Tax Implications for Foreign Investors Purchasing German Businesses

Understanding the German tax landscape is crucial for foreign investors considering business acquisitions. This comprehensive guide explores the key tax considerations including transaction structures, corporate taxes, withholding requirements, and effective tax planning strategies for international buyers in the German market.

Acquiring a Business Without Professional Experience: How Career Changers Successfully Take Over a Company

This guide demonstrates how career changers without industry-specific experience can successfully purchase a business. Learn how to compensate for missing expertise, which types of companies are particularly suitable, and how to quickly familiarize yourself with new industries.

N/A

Financing Business Acquisitions with Limited Equity: Strategies for Start-Ups

This guide demonstrates to start-ups with limited budgets how to finance a business acquisition even with little equity. Learn all about alternative financing models, funding programs, and creative strategies.

N/A

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Selling a Business Without a Broker: Advantages and Disadvantages of Direct Sales

Learn everything about selling a business without a broker. This guide explains the direct sales process, self-marketing strategies, and provides a transparent comparison of the advantages and disadvantages versus hiring an M&A advisor.

N/A

Due Diligence Costs: What Buyers and Sellers Should Expect

A detailed overview of the expected due diligence costs in a company purchase or sale. Learn about the cost factors arising from different types of audits and how to optimize them.

N/A

What Makes a Successful Entrepreneur?

What makes a successful entrepreneur? This is a question you should ask yourself before starting the search for a company. In this article, you will learn which factors to consider when purchasing a business.

N/A

Do I Have What It Takes to Buy a Business?

Do I have what it takes to buy a business? This is a question you should ask yourself before you start searching for a company. In this article, you will learn which factors to consider when purchasing a business.

N/A

Buying a Company: Checklist for a Successful Acquisition

The ultimate checklist for a successful company acquisition. With this checklist, you can ensure that you consider all important aspects when acquiring a business.

N/A

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Company Valuation Rule of Thumb: 8 Simple Methods for Quick Business Valuation

Learn the key rules of thumb for company valuation. With practical examples, tables, and step-by-step guides for rapid value determination.

N/A

Where is the Best Place to Advertise My Business?

Which platforms are best suited for selling businesses? We compare the different providers and offer tips for an optimal sale.

SellingGmbH

Low Interest Rates as an Opportunity for Corporate Transactions

What opportunities do low interest rates offer for corporate transactions? Buyers benefit from favorable financing, sellers encounter high demand.

SellingGmbH

Selling a GmbH with Debt - How Does It Work?

This article explains how to sell a GmbH with debt, how to prepare, and which risks you need to consider.

SellingGmbH

Corporate Succession with ERP Promotional Loan

Comprehensive Analysis of the New ERP Promotional Loan for Corporate Succession: Terms, Application Process, and Strategic Advantages for Successors

Corporate SuccessionFinancingERP Promotional LoanBusiness Acquisition

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Increasing Corporate Value through Sustainable Management - Practical ESG Measures before the Sale

Discover concrete sustainability measures that enhance your company's value before the sale and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

company saleM&A

Finding International Buyers - Opportunities and Challenges in Cross-Border Business Sales

Discover how to find international buyers for your company and the specific considerations to keep in mind in cross-border transactions.

Digital Transformation as a Value Driver Before a Company Sale

Learn how targeted digitalization measures can significantly increase company value prior to a sale.

CO₂ Certificates as an Earn-out Component

CO₂ Certificates as a New Alternative for Earn-out Clauses to Promote the Transformation to a More Sustainable Economy

Business SaleM&A

Ethics Audits for AI-Powered Business Valuations: A Critical Necessity in the M&A Sector

A company startup is underway

Business SaleM&A

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Company Sale: How to Confidentially Consider an Exit

Selling a company requires careful consideration. Discretion is paramount – as even a hint of a 'fire sale' can quickly jeopardize the success of the endeavor. This guide shows how to cautiously prepare for a potential exit and which confidentiality measures must be strictly observed.

Company SaleM&A

Start a Company Yourself or Buy an Existing Business?

Starting a new company is

Business SaleM&A

How to Identify Untrustworthy Prospective Buyers

The sale of a company is a complex process that requires careful planning and the selection of the right buyer. Untrustworthy prospective buyers can significantly disrupt this process and, in the worst case, lead to financial losses, wasted time, and reputational damage. This guide article helps you recognize and avoid untrustworthy prospective buyers.

Company SaleUntrustworthy Prospective BuyersSales ProcessSalePurchaseBusiness ValuationE-CommerceDigital Business ModelKey Performance IndicatorsDue Diligence

Online Business Valuation: The Crucial Role of Often Underestimated Factors

When valuing an online company, many aspects beyond classic KPIs such as revenue and profit must be carefully analyzed. This detailed guide outlines the key levers and, using practical examples, demonstrates what really matters in determining the company’s value.

Online BusinessCompany ValuationE-CommerceDigital Business ModelsWebsite AnalysisTraffic EvaluationCompetitor AnalysisDue Diligence

Company Sale 2025: These 7 Things Must Be Considered

If you plan to sell your company in 2025, you should consider these 7 things. From early planning to the process.

M&A Advisor

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Successfully Shaping Business Succession with M&A Advisors: Continuity and Future Security through Professional Support

A well-planned and structured business succession is a critical success factor for the long-term continuity of a company. This article explains how M&A advisors can effectively support the complex succession process and provide valuable insights for a future-oriented alignment.

M&A advisorsbusiness successionsuccession strategyfinancingbusiness valuationconflict managementshareholder agreementsfamily officecommunication strategy

M&A Advisors as Strategic Partners: How Sellers Benefit from Professional Support

For business sellers, collaborating with an experienced M&A advisor is a critical success factor. This comprehensive article highlights the diverse advantages of professional guidance throughout the sales process and offers valuable tips for optimizing the transaction.

M&A advisorbusiness salebusiness valuationbuyer searchnegotiation managementsales strategytransaction managementdue diligencebusiness succession

M&A Advisors: Why the Investment Pays Off for Buyers

Buyers face a variety of challenges when acquiring a company. An experienced M&A advisor can professionally guide the process and significantly influence the success of the transaction. This article highlights the benefits of collaborating with M&A experts.

M&A advisorscompany acquisitiondue diligencebusiness valuationfinancingnegotiation managementtransaction management

Employee Participation as a Succession Model in the SME Sector: Advantages, Challenges, and Success Factors

Employee participation is gaining importance as a succession solution in the SME sector. This article highlights the advantages of this innovative model, outlines challenges, and provides valuable tips for successful implementation.

Employee ParticipationBusiness SuccessionSME SectorSuccession ModelsSuccession PoolsFinancing

Company Sale: Why the Family Plays a Key Role

The Christmas season is a time of reflection for many people, a moment to consider the truly important things in life. And what could be more important than family? Especially when it comes to far-reaching decisions such as a company sale or succession planning, family ties play a central role.

Company SaleFamilySuccessionEmotionalityChristmas

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Company Sale: Successfully Integrating Employees After the Acquisition

A company acquisition is a time of uncertainty for employees. The article demonstrates how transparent communication, active involvement of the workforce, and competent leadership can successfully shape the change.

Company SaleEmployeesChange ManagementCommunicationLeadershipCorporate Culture

Corporate Sale: ESG Criteria as Value Drivers

ESG criteria are becoming increasingly important in business valuation. This article demonstrates how to incorporate ESG criteria into business valuation and the role ESG criteria play in the valuation process.

Corporate SaleESGValue DriversBusiness ValuationSustainability

Corporate Sale: Remote M&A and Virtual Business Acquisitions

Remote M&A and virtual business acquisitions are becoming increasingly important in today's environment. This article demonstrates how to successfully execute remote M&A and virtual business acquisitions.

Corporate SaleRemote M&AVirtual Business AcquisitionsBusiness ValuationSustainability

Company Sale: Creating a Sales Prospectus

A professional sales prospectus is central to a successful company sale. This article demonstrates how to structure your exposé, what matters in the presentation, and how to ensure data protection and confidentiality.

sales prospectuscompany sale

M&A Advisor: Your Professional Partner for Successful Corporate Transactions

Learn how to find the right M&A advisor and optimize the costs of consulting.

M&AConsultingCorporate TransactionCostsCompensationM&A Advisor

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

On the Road to Success as an MBI Candidate: How to Find the Right Company

Learn how to find the right company as an MBI candidate and attract attention.

MBIBusiness AcquisitionManagement Buy-InBusiness SuccessionManagement ConsultingConsultant

Succession as a Driver of Innovation: How New Ideas and Digital Transformation Succeed

Learn how business succession represents an ideal window of opportunity for innovation and digitalization.

Business SuccessionInnovationDigitalizationSMESuccession PlanningBusiness Acquisition

Business Succession Instead of Start-Up: The Smart Path to Self-Employment

Discover why taking over an existing business is often a better alternative to starting a new one. This guide highlights the advantages, challenges, and key steps involved in business succession.

Business SuccessionStart-UpBusiness AcquisitionSMESuccession PlanningBusiness Takeover

Earn-Out: Achieving a Fair Acquisition Price through Performance Participation

Earn-Outs are a variable component of the purchase price in corporate transactions. They link part of the payment to the achievement of specific targets after the acquisition. This article explains the functionality of earn-outs and illustrates them with three practical examples.

M&AEarn-OutCorporate TransactionPurchase PricePerformance ParticipationTarget AgreementPost Merger Integration

Business Valuation in Times of Crisis: Adjustments, Uncertainty, Scenarios

Valuing companies poses particular challenges during times of crisis. This article demonstrates how valuation methods need to be adjusted, how to manage uncertainty, and how scenario analyses can be utilized.

Business ValuationCrisisValuation MethodsUncertaintyRisk FactorsScenario TechniquesScenario AnalysisDue DiligenceDue Diligence Review

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Dealing with Different Price Expectations in Corporate Transactions

In corporate transactions, buyers and sellers often have differing price expectations. This article highlights the reasons for this and provides tips on how to still reach a deal that is fair for both parties.

M&Acorporate transactionpurchase pricebusiness valuationdue diligenceearn-outpurchase price negotiation

Management Buy-Out: When Managers Become Entrepreneurs

Learn all essential information about Management Buy-Outs (MBO) as a tool for business succession. This article explores the background, opportunities, challenges, and success factors when management takes over a company.

Management Buy-OutMBObusiness acquisitionbusiness successionfinancingprivate equity

Bonus of the GmbH Managing Director: Tax Regulations and Practical Examples

The bonus offers an attractive way to remunerate GmbH managing directors based on performance. This article highlights the tax aspects of bonuses and illustrates, using practical examples, what is important in structuring the bonus agreement.

GmbH Managing DirectorBonusVariable CompensationHidden Profit DistributionTax Law

Employee Participation as a Succession Model for SMEs

Business succession poses significant challenges for many small and medium-sized enterprises. This article explores employee participation as an innovative and promising solution to the succession problem.

Employee ParticipationBusiness SuccessionSMEsBusiness TransferSuccession Models

Buy-and-Build Strategies: A Solution to the Succession Crisis for German SMEs

Buy-and-Build strategies offer medium-sized enterprises a promising solution to the succession crisis. Learn how targeted acquisitions and their integration can unlock growth potential and enhance company value.

Buy-and-BuildM&ABusiness SuccessionSMEsGrowth Strategy

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

Business Sale: What Taxes Are Incurred?

In this article, you will learn which taxes are incurred during a business sale and how you can optimize them.

Business SaleTaxesTax Optimization

Business Valuation: How to Calculate the Company Value?

In this article, we present the most important methods for business valuation and explain the differences between income value, multiplier, and asset value.

Business valuationCompany valueIncome value methodMultiplier methodAsset value methodDCF methodCompany saleM&A

How to Build an Amazon FBA Business and What Buyers Should Consider

Viaductus founder Sven Graeber provides insight into building his Amazon FBA business. If you are considering starting an FBA business yourself, this article is a good starting point.

Amazon FBAE-CommerceBusiness SuccessionSMEsM&A

Business Exchanges in the German-Speaking Region: Opportunities and Risks for Buyers and Sellers

This article examines the key business exchanges in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as their relevance for [business sales](/firma-verkaufen) and acquisitions.

business exchangebusiness successionSMEM&A

AI Revolutionizes the M&A Market: How Artificial Intelligence is Transforming Mergers and Acquisitions

Artificial intelligence is changing the way mergers and acquisitions are conducted. Discover how AI technologies are transforming the M&A process and the opportunities and challenges associated with it.

AIM&ATechnologyCorporate Strategy

How much is your company worth?

Use our free valuation tool and get a first well-founded assessment in just a few minutes.

5 Important Lessons I Had to Learn Before My First Business Acquisition

Discover the valuable insights I gained from my first business acquisition and how you can leverage them for your own success.

Business AcquisitionBusiness SuccessLearning

Management Buy-In - Achieve Your Own Company in 5 Steps

This article outlines 5 important factors for a management buy-in.

BuyingManagement Buy-In

Determine the value of your company now free of charge

Use our professional valuation tool and receive an initial well-founded assessment of the value of your company within a few minutes.

Free & instant valuation
Based on industry multipliers
No registration required
Professional valuation methodology
Unternehmensbewertung Online Tool
Instant result
100% free of charge