Mergers and acquisitions advisory

Pursuing an M&A is a good move for companies whose goal is to accelerate growth beyond simply organic growth, to differentiate or solidify their product offering, expand geographic reach, or accelerate market share. M&A can provide a rapid scale-up, access to new technologies, and instant market entry, but it is not a replacement for organic growth. 

StoneX helps boards and management teams evaluate whether selling their company is the correct business decision based on provided reference points of performance. This process can include internal and external comparisons, allowing companies to assess their performance against industry leaders or competitors, as well as identifying areas needing improvement and make data-driven long-term goals.  

StoneX M&A advisors are not only experts in the M&A process but also have deep investment banking services, debt advisory investment banking, and equity capital market investment banking experience, knowledge and a financial network that can significantly increase the chances of the transaction being successful. We help companies make complex decisions, helping to ensure the best possible outcome and deal success.

StoneX develops and prioritises a potential buyer universe based on strategic fit, financial capacity, sector interest, transaction rationale and likely diligence requirements.

The team may consider strategic, financial and hybrid buyers and refine outreach as market feedback and process objectives evolve.  

Buy-side advisory supports clients evaluating and pursuing acquisitions, including target identification, valuation, diligence, negotiations and transaction execution.

Sell-side advisory supports owners and financial sponsors preparing a business for sale, identifying potential buyers, managing outreach and diligence, and negotiating transaction terms. Legal counsel and other professional advisers remain responsible for legal, tax and regulatory advice.

As a financial advisory firm, StoneX provides tools and guidance to evaluate the optimal capital structure for M&A transactions. We assess the financial position, cash flow stability, and debt capacity of both the acquiring and target companies, as well as understanding the strategic objectives of the M&A transactions.  

Clients can expect senior-level attention and continuity from StoneX throughout the M&A process. We are committed to providing unparalleled service, relentless effort, and local expertise to our clients. Our philosophy emphasizes doing the right thing rather than the easy thing, which contributes to building a credible and recognized global franchise.  

Not all M&A transactions take the same time to complete. Several factors play a role in the timing of such deals including: 

• Complexity of the transaction 
• Regulatory scrutiny or cross-border transactions 
• Market conditions 
• Due diligence complexity 
• Length of the integration phase, which can take as long as one to three years

StoneX employs a strategic approach to balance confidentiality with competitive tension during the sales process by implementing robust information governance policies and leveraging technology. We prioritize transparency while protecting sensitive data.