This article discusses the memorialization of purchase offers in a letter of intent (LOI) in M&A transactions. An LOI outlines key terms of the deal but is non-binding. It includes provisions like exclusivity, confidentiality, expenses, and non-solicitation that may be binding. Careful drafting is essential to avoid potential risks. Properly considered, an LOI is a valuable tool for M&A deals, guiding parties through negotiations with caution.
This blog post discusses the importance, elements, and exceptions of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) when selling a business. Key points include the priority for sellers to sign an NDA before disclosing sensitive information, the necessity for clear definitions of what the NDA covers, guidelines for sharing information, the term length of NDAs, and remedies in case of a breach. Despite its protection, enforcing NDAs can be challenging, advising selective information sharing.
For high-growth startups, these tax benefits are often well worth the time and brainpower spent planning and structuring for the requirements imposed by Section 1202 of the Internal Revenue Code. However, to fully take advantage of these benefits, understanding and navigating the 5-year holding period requirement under Section 1202 is essential. In this article, we’ll explore one common scenario that illustrates a key consideration with respect to the holding period from the founder’s and advisor’s perspective.
Founders and startups need to consider Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS), which offers extensive tax advantages, for their corporate structure. QSBS awards tax benefits to shareholders of companies that meet specific eligibility requirements, including the company being a C-corporation and having assets below $50 million. These benefits mainly include partial or complete exclusions of capital gains from federal income tax. Early planning and knowledgeable advice are crucial for optimization.
The process of buying or selling a business involves several key stages including buyers and sellers finding each other, confidentiality agreement signing, due diligence, drafting letters of intent and transaction documents, closing the deal and post-closing. Having a deep understanding of these steps can lead to a more efficient transaction and better results.
Passed by Congress on Jan. 1, 2021, as part of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2021, the Corporate Transparency Act (the CTA) requires certain businesses formed in or registered to do business in the United States to report beneficial ownership information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). The CTA requires reporting companies to report to FinCEN the name, date of birth, current address, and unique identifying number (from an acceptable identification document such as a driver’s license or passport) for each applicant and beneficial owner.
