M&A Momentum in 2025: Canada Poised to Ride the Global Wave
There’s a wave of optimism building across global M&A markets in 2025—and Canada is very much part of the momentum. As an M&A advisor working closely with mid-market business owners and investors, I’m seeing firsthand how both global tailwinds and domestic developments are shaping what looks to be a dynamic year for dealmaking. Here are […]
Top FAQs Answered by a Chartered Business Valuator
I get a variety of questions from business owners, entrepreneurs, and other professionals seeking clarity on business valuation. Below, I’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help demystify the process and provide valuable insights into this critical aspect of business management. 1. What is a business valuation? A business […]
Successful Strategies for Cross-Border M&A
Cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&A) present exciting opportunities for businesses looking to expand into new markets, gain competitive advantages, and enhance operational efficiencies. However, these deals also come with unique complexities, including regulatory hurdles, cultural differences, and financial risks. As an experienced M&A advisor at Portage M&A Advisory, I have witnessed firsthand the strategies that […]
How to Attract Investors with a Solid Business Valuation
I often encounter business owners who are ready to scale their ventures but struggle to secure investor interest. One of the most effective ways to attract investors is by presenting a solid and credible business valuation. A well-prepared valuation demonstrates the business’s potential, builds trust, and lays the foundation for successful negotiations. Here are key […]
Value Enhancement Strategies to Optimize Your Business Sale
As an M&A Advisor, I’ve had the privilege of guiding business owners through one of the most critical phases of their entrepreneurial journey: the sale of their business. Preparing for a sale is not just about finding the right buyer; it’s about presenting your business in the best possible light to maximize its value. One […]
Maximize Your Tax Savings: Why Starting the Sale Process Now Can Benefit You Before 2026
As a Chartered Business Valuator, I have been closely monitoring the recent developments surrounding Canada’s capital gains tax legislation. The federal government’s decision to defer the implementation of proposed changes to January 1, 2026, has significant implications for businesses and investors alike. Initially proposed in April 2024, the government aimed to increase the taxable portion […]
The Top Mistakes Business Owners Make During the Sales Process
Selling your business is one of the most significant decisions you will ever make. It’s a process filled with opportunities but also potential pitfalls. Having worked with countless business owners, I’ve seen how certain missteps can derail even the best-laid plans. To help you navigate this critical journey, here are the top mistakes business owners […]
Understanding Multiples in Business Valuation: What They Mean for Your Sale Price
When it comes to selling your business, understanding its value is crucial. One of the most common tools used in business valuation is the application of “multiples.” But what exactly are multiples, and how do they influence the sale price of your business? Let’s break it down. What Are Multiples? Multiples are valuation metrics used […]
What Is An Equity Rollover When Selling Your Business?
In M&A, an equity rollover, or recapitalization (recap), occurs when a business owner sells their company but chooses to reinvest, or “roll over,” a portion of the proceeds into the newly acquired business. An equity rollover allows a shareholder to maintain a vested interest in the combined business and benefit from any potential future growth […]
Retirement: Ready or Not?
In the latest episode of The Selling Successfully Podcast, Portage Founder and Partner Jim Friesen was joined by Portage Partner and Head of Valuations, Ryan Buist, to remind sellers that there’s much more to consider than just numbers when it comes to retirement. There’s an introspective process they must undertake to truly assess their level […]
