Evaluating M&A Opportunities: Essential Questions for Advisors

Discover how to approach mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and succession planning decisions with clarity and strategic focus beyond deal valuations. Join host Dave Alison as he sits down with Stan Milovancev, CPA, QKA, co-CEO of Prosperity Capital Advisors and C2P, to explore the critical questions advisors should address before entering any M&A process.

Stan has over 30 years of leadership experience across Ernst & Young, Charles Schwab, and CBZ Investment Advisory Services, where he oversaw a $70 billion RIA platform. He shares insights on distinguishing between opportunistic growth strategies and defensive succession planning while addressing the emotional and operational challenges that frequently derail transactions. Dave also shares his recent experience integrating Alison Wealth Management with Prosperity Capital Advisors, providing practical insights into the M&A process from an advisor’s perspective.

Key Topics Covered:

• Motivation Assessment: Identifying genuine business reasons versus Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)-driven decisions
• Skills Analysis: Understanding capabilities needed for future growth versus current strengths
• The “Muddy Middle” Challenge: Why firms that grow beyond boutique size without achieving scale face significant risks
• Emotional Readiness: Managing identity, control, and uncertainty during transitions
• Client-Focused Decision Making: Using fiduciary responsibility as the primary decision framework
• Delegation and Partnership: Developing essential skills before they become critical
• Long-Term Vision: Creating sustainable practices that serve clients across generations

Resources:

• Organization referenced: Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) Forum