If rightly used, both mezzanine debt and private equity can be extremely beneficial tools for corporate growth and can increase the value of the company. Key differentiators are as follows:
Mezzanine Debt
1) Mezzanine debt, also known as subordinated debt is a hybrid of debt and equity financing and allows buyers to retain major control of the business. It comes with moderate risks and costs.
2) Unlike senior debt, which comes with a highly structured amortization schedule and relatively short maturities, mezzanine debt financing offers more flexibility in coupon structure, terms and amortization and can be customized to provide for specific financial needs.
3) It is most appropriate for businesses that are cash flow rich or those that lack the business assets to gain finance through bank financing alone.
Private Equity
1) An equity investment provides capital by allowing the investors to become partners in the business with decision-making rights, where the future profits will eventually repay the investor. It comes with high risks and costs.
2) Private equity investment ensures that the company is well capitalized for future growth. However, on the downside, a significant amount of equity, possibly as much as a 85 percent of majority stake, may have to be given up.
3) It is most suited for companies operating with limited tangible assets or for those that have maximized their borrowing potential.
Mezzanine debt or private equity can be efficiently employed on its own or in conjunction with each other in varying degrees for any given transaction, including funding of acquisitions, management buyouts or expansion plans. In the US, private equity and mezzanine have worked together to support the capital needs of numerous growing companies across the country. By providing growth capital to companies on their way up, mezzanine debt financing providers have successfully bridged the gap for companies that lack the required assets needed for senior debt, but still wish to retain the majority stake in their business.
While seeking mezzanine debt or private equity investment, is important to engage the services of an experienced financial advisor early in the process.
To learn more about U.S. middle-market business challenges and funding solutions that help companies grow, please call 631-689-5713.