Valuation in Mergers and Acquisitions 2600-MRCdz2WPFf
1. Introduction to the Issues of Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)
2. The Role of Due Diligence in the M&A Process
3. Financial Due diligence and Company Valuation
4. An Overview of Business Valuation Methods
4.1 Definitions of Value and its Driving Factors
4.2 Legal Acts, General Principles, and Functions of Valuation
4.3 Accounting and Non-Accounting Sources of Information for Valuation Purposes
4.4 Asset-Based Valuation Methods - Types of Methods, Advantages and Disadvantages, Scope of Application
4.5 Income-Based Valuation Methods
4.6 Market-Based Valuation Methods (Application of Multiples) – Comparable Company Analysis (CCA) vs. Precedent Transaction Analysis (PTA)
5. Advanced Issues and Specialized Context in Valuation
5.1 Valuation of Synergies in M&A Transactions
5.2 Valuation in LBO (Leveraged Buyout) Transactions
Type of course
Learning outcomes
After completing the course:
In terms of knowledge, the student:
• Understand the methodology of business valuation within the M&A context, including the principles of cash flow forecasting, cost of capital estimation, and terminal value identification. (S3_W01) (K_W01).
• Demonstrate knowledge of income-based methods (DCF – FCFF, FCFE, DDM), asset-based methods (NAV, replacement cost, liquidation value), and market-based methods (multiples such as EV/EBITDA, P/E, P/BV). (S3_W02) (K_W03).
• Possess an advanced understanding of economic theories and models (e.g., time value of money, risk and return) related to business valuation within the M&A context. (S3_W01) (K_W03).
• Be familiar with the legal and regulatory frameworks governing valuations within the M&A context (e.g., IFRS, International Valuation Standards, National Valuation Standards). (K_W04).
• Understand the impact of macroeconomic factors (inflation, interest rates, country risk) and industry-specific factors (industry life cycle, sectoral regulations, technological innovation) on valuation processes within the M&A context. (S3_W05) (K_W05).
• Understands the role of valuation in M&A processes as a tool supporting entrepreneurship development in domestic and global markets. Can identify how valuation influences corporate growth and expansion strategies. (K_W07).
In terms of skills, the student:
• is able to prepare and apply financial projections necessary for business valuation within the M&A context, including FCFF, FCFE, and DDM-based approaches. (K_U01).
• is able to develop projected income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements for valuation purposes. (K_U01).
• is able to calculate the cost of equity (CAPM, Fama–French three-factor model) and the weighted average cost of capital (WACC). (K_U01).
• is able to conduct a DCF valuation, calculate terminal value (Gordon growth model or exit multiple), and estimate enterprise value within the M&A context.(K_U01).
• is able to apply market-based valuation methods, select appropriate peer groups, and interpret resulting multiples. (K_U01).
• is able to build an Excel-based M&A valuation model using financial formulas, scenario analysis, and sensitivity tables. (K_U01).
• can accurately interpret technological, social, political, legal, economic, and ecological processes and their impact on business valuation within the M&A context (K_U02).
• is able to prepare a comprehensive valuation report in the context of M&A, including assumptions, results, and recommendations for management or investors. (K_U06).
• can plan and organize both individual and team work in the process of preparing a valuation in the context of M&A. (K_U05).
• Demonstrate the ability for self-directed learning and continuous professional development. (K_U09).
In terms of attitudes the student::
• Is prepared to critically analyze and question the results of a valuation in the context of M&A (e.g., discrepancies between methods, overly optimistic forecasts). (K_K01).
• Is able to think and act entrepreneurially, applying valuation in M&A processes to identify investment opportunities and create value in both domestic and global markets. (K_K04)
• Is prepared to adhere to professional ethical standards in the field of business valuation in the context of M&A.(K_K05).
• Understands the social responsibility of valuation (e.g., in restructuring, takeovers, or legal proceedings).(K_K05).
Assessment criteria
The learning assessment will be based on:
- a written final assessment (multiple-choice questions and 2 problem-solving tasks), and
- a project – group work (3–4 students).
The weighting of each component will be as follows:
- written final assessment – 80%
- project – 20%
Practical placement
-
Bibliography
Supplementary literature to the materials provided by the lecturer:
1. Joshua Rosenbaum, Joshua Pearl, (2013) Investment Banking: Valuation, Leveraged Buyouts, and Mergers & Acquisitions NJ: Wiley
2. Koller, T., Goedhart, M., Wessels, D. and McKinsey & Company Inc. (2025) Valuation: Measuring and Managing the Value of Companies. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
3. Panfil Marek, Szablewski Andrzej red. (2011), Wycena przedsiębiorstwa . Od teorii do praktyki., Wydawnictwo Poltext,
4. Szczepankowski Piotr (2007), Wycena i zarządzanie wartością przedsiębiorstwa, Wydawnictwo Naukowe PWN, Warszawa
5. Międzynarodowe standardy Wyceny
6. Krajowe standardy Wyceny Specjalistycznej