Glossary

With over 200 terms in both English and French, our M&A Dictionary is designed to help you better understand the key words and concepts related to the sale oe purchase of a business in Canada.

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Intermediary

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Category: Mergers and Acquisitions

Definition:

Similar to “business broker”, an intermediary is a certified professional who assists in the buying and selling of businesses. In transactions of less than $2 million of value, the intermediary if often referred to as a business broker. For transactions above $2 million in value, the intermediary is often referred to as a Merger and Acquisition Advisor or Investment Banker. Whatever their title, these professionals act as intermediaries between buyers and sellers, facilitating the process of business transactions. They play a crucial role in helping business owners sell their businesses and prospective buyers acquire businesses that align with their interests and investment goals. Key benefits in using a certified intermediary include valuation expertise, marketing skills, ensuring confidentiality, market knowledge, securing and screening qualified buyers, managing due diligence, and deal structuring. The two largest associations of business intermediaries in Canada include IBBA Canada (International Business Brokers Association Canada: www.ibbacanada.org) and AM&AA (Alliance of Merger & Acquisition Advisors: www.amaaonline.com).