Can Deal Characteristics in Q4 2021 Help Up Understand What 2022 Has in Store? The IBBA and M&A Source recently published their Q4 Market Pulse Report giving insight into the trends that can be expected in the current market for mergers and acquisitions trends 2022. The Q4 survey was conducted from January 1-15th, 2022, and was completed by 416 business brokers and M&A advisors covering 379 transactions. We have summarized some of the key topics below and offered our own insights. While the topic on everyone’s mind is Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, according to certain experts, the effects on US domestic lower and middle-market dealmaking are likely to be limited. Let’s begin by looking at common elements across most transactions. Seller Employment / Consulting Agreements Post-Sale It is nearly universal that the seller will be asked to remain with the business post-sale for a transition period. Some agreements include a prolonged transition period during which the seller is either hired on as an employee and paid a salary and benefits, or is retained as a consultant. Buyers and sellers may want to arrange an employment contract for a number of reasons, such as when the business is reliant on the […]