Here are 3 key takeaways you shouldn’t miss:

• Differentiation & Moat Matter More Than Ever: Acquirers are laser-focused on whether your business is truly differentiated or just another commoditized player. Building a strong brand and product with real staying power is critical—and will be heavily scrutinized during due diligence.

• Be Strategic About Capital: Don’t raise money for bragging rights. The strongest companies are measured by the least capital raised, not the most. Make sure any capital you take aligns with your long-term vision, helps you build value, and brings true strategic partners and resources—not just a big check.

• Preparation is Everything for Exits: Whether it’s M&A, private placements, or prepping for IPO, discipline in financial controls, assembling a high-caliber management team, and focusing on genuine profitability (not just growth at all costs) set the foundation for a business worth buying. Buyers care about consistency, growth with margins, and resilience in your sector.

What Happens When Your Planning Triangle Is Out of Balance

Forecasts aren’t failing—you are favoring the wrong side of the triangle. Here’s how to spot the warning signs of IBP imbalance and fix the behaviors behind it.

If your forecasts are “always wrong,” the issue isn’t accuracy—it’s imbalance.