The market approach, whereby appraisers use comparable “guideline companies” to help them estimate the value of a private business, has become a long-standing valuation touchstone. Two primary valuation methods are categorized under the market approach: Guideline public company method. Here, appraisers identify companies with stock (or partnership interests) that are actively traded in the public markets,…

Did you know that business valuators offer two types of appraisal services? Formal valuations are the most common service valuators provide, requiring significant time and in-depth analyses. But sometimes a less formal “calculation” of value will suffice — just don’t expect it to stand up to outside scrutiny. Calculations are only as reliable as the assumptions and scope…

Passing your estate to an heir with credit problems or a gambling or alcohol addiction might not only lead to that wealth being squandered, but the inheritance could worsen the destructive behaviors. Of course, you don’t want to disinherit your child simply because of his or her personal challenges. There are potential solutions that allow…