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M&A Science

Strategic Perspectives on M&A

Oct 14, 2024
Henry Ward, CEO and Co-founder of Carta, shares his wealth of knowledge on M&A strategies, emphasizing their critical role in today's competitive landscape. He explores how businesses can refine their approaches to align with long-term goals. Topics include building actionable cases for acquisitions, valuing high-growth companies, and the differences between bounded and unbounded deals. Ward also discusses the importance of relationship-building and psychological barriers in closing successful mergers, offering valuable insights for aspiring M&A professionals.
59:08

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Quick takeaways

  • Success in M&A necessitates a strategic alignment with long-term business goals to navigate industry shifts effectively.
  • Establishing rapport with founders and conveying a shared vision is crucial for productive discussions during acquisitions.

Deep dives

The Evolution of Carta

Carta has transformed significantly since its inception, growing from a small startup to a significant player in the market, now generating approximately $400 million in revenue with about 2,000 employees. Originally focused on cap tables, the company expanded its offerings, particularly in the 409A space due to increasing customer demand. Early on, a potential acquisition of a 409A firm fell through, which paved the way for Carta to build its own expertise in providing this essential service. This experience illustrates how setbacks in M&A can lead to growth and the development of critical competencies within a company.

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