Business valuations are commonly needed to calculate estate tax upon death, split up family assets in a divorce, and determine the value of a business venture purchase, sale, or merger of a business venture. There are many other reasons why a holder of an interest in a privately held company might want a business valuation. A few of those reasons include:
- Adequacy of Life Insurance
- Employee Stock Ownership Plans
- Gifting Programs
- Obtaining Financing
- Succession Planning
The best reason is to use it as a management tool. The primary objective of any business is to maximize its value to the owners. A properly prepared business valuation helps management identify company strengths and weaknesses that affect value, allowing them to focus their energies in areas that count.
A periodic business valuation also helps owners assess their business's overall success and management. Identifying and correcting potential problems usually translates into more profits, a more robust financial statement, and a greater company value.