In the latest episode of This Is M&A, Ben Boissevain, Founder and Managing Partner at Ascento Capital Invest, joins host Steven Monterroso to discuss why waiting for “perfect” market conditions could be the most expensive mistake a founder ever makes.
“Founders love to talk multiples, but 2021 was an anomaly,” says Boissevain. “Those valuations are gone, and what matters now is timing and readiness.”
It’s a sobering truth many dealmakers have learned the hard way. The deals closing today didn’t start yesterday—they were set in motion six months ago, when market signals looked very different. By the time most founders decide the timing feels “right,” the window has already begun to close.
Why Readiness Beats Timing
Boissevain has spent decades advising growth-stage tech companies on M&A strategy, fundraising, and exits. His message is clear: the best founders don’t wait for the stars to align — they prepare continuously.
“The best founders treat deal preparation like product development — ongoing and strategic,” Boissevain explains. “Know your top acquirers, benchmark your sector, and stay ready.”
That readiness mindset can mean millions in difference at exit. In competitive markets, the first movers often secure premium valuations — while those who follow the crowd see their multiples cut in half.
The Clock Is Always Ticking
Deals rarely collapse because of bad fundamentals; more often, they die from delays, indecision, or lack of preparation.
As Boissevain reminds listeners, “Time kills deals.”
For founders eyeing a liquidity event in 2026 or beyond, now is the time to tighten diligence materials, keep financials audit-ready, and understand who your likely buyers are. Because when the market turns, opportunity favors those already in motion.
🎧 Listen to the full episode of This Is M&A: “Timing Is Everything: Why Founders Who Wait Lose Millions.”
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