By Bryan Shaw 

Common indicators of a positive M&A target, include:

Corporate governance – ‘This is a strong indicator of a good target, evidenced by regular board meetings, appointing non-executive directors and keeping books and records in order. It also enables any negative issues to be identified early and rectified promptly.

Good quality investors – It’s worth consulting the target’s cap table as institutional investor shareholders or other well-known professional investors are usually a sign of a solid business or one with strong potential.