Private company outlook
Market readiness
Why timing is everything when making the big deal
For private companies, orchestrating a successful transfer or sale isn’t simply a matter of luck. It hinges on timing, preparation, and strategic foresight. To better understand how they’re navigating these pivotal decisions, we asked 100 private company leaders contemplating a sale or transfer about their upcoming plans, priorities, and pain points. Many are gearing up for a significant transaction—and soon. However, several priorities remain front and center for leaders: maximizing recognized gains, managing transfer taxes, and securing the right external advisors.
Download the full report to discover how companies are aligning the right resources and strategies as they position themselves to act when the moment is right.
What are private company leaders considering?
anticipate a company transaction within the next 1-3 years.
of respondents said market conditions will drive transaction timing.
will consider tax implications in their transaction planning.
Key survey takeaways
- Business continuity is the primary goal. Forty percent of organizations say ensuring business continuity is their main motivation for a sale or transfer, well ahead of other motivations like liquidity or scaling.
- Navigating transactions requires support. Companies preparing for upcoming deals are increasingly seeking guidance from third-party advisors, particularly around due diligence.
- Tax considerations take priority. Nearly nine in ten leaders identify taxes on recognized gains and transfer taxes as major factors in planning a sale or transfer.
“As these private company leaders increasingly look to transactions as a pathway to business continuity and growth, they are approaching each decision with careful consideration—closely evaluating market conditions, organizational readiness, and tax implications. Whether pursuing a full or partial sale in the years ahead, their priorities seem clear: managing transitions to safeguard stability, fuel expansion, and create lasting value for owners and other stakeholders alike.”
Wolfe Tone, US Deloitte Private leader
About the survey
What’s top of mind for private enterprises? Approximately every quarter, we survey 100 private company leaders to find out. We ask them about strategies, risks, and opportunities they see ahead for their private or family-owned enterprise. That research turns into private company outlooks—which provide you with the most useful insights for now and in the near future. Check out some of our recent topics below, and discover how fellow private enterprises navigate growth, financials, talent, and more.
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