How could a PE firm boost returns in an LBO?

Answer

There are a couple of ways, all of which you can watch play out in a model:

  • Lower entry multiple
  • Raise exit multiple
  • Increase debt / equity ratio
  • Increase revenue growth
  • Increase margins

Why this matters to bankers

Knowing where the levers to boost returns are in your LBO is key to creating an accurate LBO. Checking the accuracy and re-considering these are a key part of refining your analysis.