Using valuation expertise to protect M&A clients
November 18, 2025
According to PwC’s M&A 2025 mid-year trends report, deals dipped in H1 2025 compared to the same period last year.
Volumes were down by 19% and values by 12.3%. Despite seemingly favourable market conditions, buyers exercised greater caution in the face of uncertainty fuelled by ongoing regional conflicts, US policy on tariffs and continued rapid technology changes influenced by AI.
In this climate, valuation experts play a critical role and their capability is dependent upon them understanding the context of the deal. We’re not just number crunchers – we’re translators of commercial reality. Whether it’s assessing goodwill, intellectual property, or contingent liabilities, our job is to help legal teams support and protect their clients by bridging the gap between expectation and defensibility.
We’ve seen the downside risk if any of the key players don’t bring their A-game.
As an example, a recent tech startup acquisition collapsed when the buyer’s valuation was challenged post-completion, triggering litigation over earn-out terms.
Valuation isn’t just about price – it’s about timing, assumptions, and legal clarity. How do you value a SaaS business with deferred revenue and churn risk? Or a family-owned manufacturer with legacy contracts?
These aren’t academic questions. They’re the kinds of issues that can derail deals or, at worst, end up in disputes and legal action, if not handled effectively. That’s why law firm partners depend on valuation experts who can anticipate problems and disputes before they happen and understand how to mitigate risk.
