• QuickRead Top Story - Valuation/Appraisal

    Understanding IPCPL Theory, Evidence, and Application

    Empirical Evidence Supporting IPCPL Theory (Part III) In this third article, the authors present the empirical evidence supporting use of the IPCPL theory. In the second article in this series, it was shown that the general empirical implications of implied private company pricing line (IPCPL) theory are that buyers of privately owned businesses pay higher transaction costs in exchange for higher returns on their investments. The IPCPL theory treats transaction costs (TC) as a proportion or percentage of transaction price (P) stated as a decreasing convex function of P. (The higher the price, the lower the percentage transactions costs are…

  • Financial Forensics - QuickRead Top Story

    Fidelity Claims Investigations

    A Comprehensive Guide to Successful Claims Outcomes (Part II of II) In this second of a two-part article, the authors discuss areas where outside expertise may be needed and policy exclusions. Read Part I here. Introduction: Navigating Claims Challenges and How Experts Can Help Throughout the fidelity claims handling process, issues or challenges may arise for which parties involved must reconcile. Here are some common issues that may be encountered: Proof of Loss: One of the primary challenges in fidelity claims is establishing the proof of loss. The insured party must provide evidence of the fraudulent or dishonest acts committed…

  • QuickRead Top Story - Valuation/Appraisal

    Unimpeachable Principalities

    A Principle-Driven Framework to Standard Setting This 17th article of the unimpeachable neutrality series will attempt to elevate your understanding of standards beyond mere compliance and foster a world rich in principle-driven actions. In a world increasingly governed by complex standards and regulatory landscapes, the craft of creating standards that stand the test of time has never been more crucial. Just as it is insufficient to teach a child not to murder merely because it is illegal, effective parenting also nurtures a respect for life and the well-being of others that transcends legal mandates. This approach parallels the essence of…

  • Financial Forensics - QuickRead Top Story

    Fidelity Claims Investigations

    A Comprehensive Guide to Successful Claims Outcomes (Part I of II) Fidelity/crime/financial institution bonds, in a general sense, cover an insured from the willful theft of property, money, and securities by one of their employees or an outside third-party carried out through a variety of means. Such fraud can impact myriad industries. In this two-part article, the authors provide fundamental aspects of a fidelity investigation, from inception to recovery of stolen funds. Introduction: Understanding Fidelity Investigations Fidelity/crime/financial institution bonds, in a general sense, cover an insured from the willful theft of property, money, and securities by one of their employees…

  • QuickRead Top Story - Valuation/Appraisal

    Reducing Bias in Business Valuation Engagements

    Navigating Bias in Business Valuations Valuation analysts are tasked with gathering information, analyzing data, summarizing findings, and communicating the results. This includes quantifying the expected cash flows and risks of the business through often conflicting and misrepresented information. This article provides an overview of bias, how it affects business valuations, and provides readers with the standards and tools they need to confidently support their opinions when challenged. Introduction “When the facts change, I change my mind. What do you do?” – Sir John Maynard Keynes Our waking hours are bombarded with more information than can be absorbed. From 2009 to…

  • Practice Management - QuickRead Top Story

    The #1 Thing Prospects Look for on Your Website

    What is the #1 thing on your website that will convince a prospect that your firm is the right choice for a project? Rod Burkert shares his views on what is needed to go from zero to hero and land that engagement. Imagine I am a prospect for getting your BVFLS services. I found you on Google or LinkedIn. Or maybe I saw an article you wrote. Maybe heard a presentation you gave. Or maybe I got a recommendation from a colleague. It (almost) doesn’t matter. But now, I’m knocking at your website door. What is the #1 thing on…

  • Litigation Consulting - QuickRead Top Story

    Challenges to Expert Witnesses Under New Rule of Evidence 702

    Experts on Notice Federal Rule of Evidence 702 has undergone changes; these were made in 2000 and 2011. The recent amendments clarify the gatekeeping function of the trial court. A trial court is charged not with weighing the expert’s opinion; rather it is charged with determining if the testimony is admissible. This article discusses the recent changes to this rule and how this will impact proposed experts and their counsel’s choice of experts. Ever since the United States Supreme Court rendered its groundbreaking decision in 1993 in Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 509 U.S. 579 (1993), expert witnesses have…

  • QuickRead Top Story - Valuation/Appraisal

    The Meritocracy of an Unregulated Market

    Is There a Need to Broaden Regulation? Can humans achieve economic market efficiency without the “visible hand” or is the collateral damage of decisions an unfortunate reality in exchange for the freedom of unregulated markets. This article discusses the role of regulation in an unregulated market and potential shifts. How do you measure ability when the parameters are not clearly defined? As valuation analysts, we determine the cost of capital using inputs such as return on regulated public markets. Restrictions of public securities markets are often set in place through governmental bodies which impose arguable economic checks and balances. The…