Efterkøbsvurderingen

Efterkøbsvurderingen, often translated as post-acquisition valuation, is a critical process in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). It refers to the valuation of an acquired company's assets and liabilities at their fair value as of the acquisition date. This is distinct from the purchase price itself, which is negotiated between the buyer and seller. The purpose of the efterkøbsvurdering is to accurately reflect the true economic value of the acquired entity on the buyer's balance sheet.

The primary accounting standard that governs this process is typically International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) or local Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). The valuation involves identifying all acquired assets, including tangible ones like property, plant, and equipment, and intangible ones such as patents, trademarks, customer relationships, and goodwill. Each of these must be assessed at its fair value, which might differ significantly from its book value on the seller's books.

Any excess of the purchase price over the sum of the net identifiable assets acquired at fair value is recognized as goodwill. Conversely, if the net identifiable assets at fair value exceed the purchase price, this difference results in a gain on bargain purchase, which is recognized immediately in profit or loss. The efterkøbsvurdering is a complex undertaking that often requires the expertise of valuation specialists and auditors to ensure accuracy and compliance with accounting regulations. It lays the foundation for future financial reporting of the acquired business.