Transactions in the United States and the United Kingdom can
have material differences, particularly with respect to purchase
price adjustment mechanics, due diligence processes, equity
incentives, third-party reliance on diligence reports, sandbagging
provisions, MAC closing conditions, and auction processes. This
article explores these areas further, providing insights into how
legal frameworks and market practices differ between the two
jurisdictions.
Purchase Price Adjustment Mechanics
The purchase price adjustment mechanics in US and UK
transactions are pivotal in determining the final amount the buyer
pays the seller for the target business. These mechanisms are
designed to ensure that the value of the target business at closing
aligns with the expectations set at the time of signing the
purchase agreement. While both jurisdictions aim to provide fair
and accurate valuations, their methodologies and underlying
principles diverge significantly.