5 Reasons M&As Die: What Founders Should Know
David Lim, Founding Partner, TSF Law
17-Nov-25 11:00
Embed Podcast
You can share this podcast by copying this HTML to your clipboard and pasting into your blog or web page.
Close
For many founders, an M&A deal feels like the ultimate exit. But what starts as a pot of gold often turns into a minefield of brutal due diligence, hidden liabilities, and founder infighting. In fact, a significant number of promising deals fall apart before even reaching the finish line.
Lawyer David Lim of TSF Law joins us to unpack the 5 key reasons why these deals get messy. He explains the principle of "caveat emptor" (buyer beware), the long-term liabilities that can follow a founder for years, and the critical mistake of founders getting too involved in the deal-making process.
We discuss:
The "brutality" of due diligence and why founders must be prepared.
Why the deal doesn't end at signing: understanding warranties and clawbacks.
The risk of founders getting too involved and letting the core business suffer.
Why hiring generalist advisors for a "friendly price" is a costly mistake.
The importance of a "sell-side health check" before you even talk to a buyer.
For any founder or business owner considering an exit, a merger, or a significant fundraising round, this is an essential dive into navigating the process and protecting your interests.
Produced by: Roshan Kanesan
Presented by: Roshan Kanesan
This and more than 60,000 other podcasts in your hand. Download the all new BFM mobile app.
Categories: Corporates, managing, entrepreneurs
Tags: mergers & acquisitions, m&a, due diligence, corporate law, fundraising, business exit,
