M&A Framework
M&A case interviews require both strategic and financial logic. A strong answer explains why the target fits, what it is worth, and what could go wrong.
The recommendation should answer whether to buy, at what price range, why the deal creates value, and what diligence is needed before closing.
Prompt: A national pet retailer is considering acquiring a direct-to-consumer premium pet food brand. Should it buy the company?
Answer path: Evaluate strategic fit, target growth, margin profile, customer retention, potential channel synergies, purchase price, and integration risk. The deal only creates value if expected synergies and standalone growth justify the acquisition premium.
This M&A case study interview structure also works for broader acquisition prompts where the client needs to decide whether to buy, partner, or walk away.
You need basic deal logic: value, synergies, price paid, and risk. Most case interviews use simplified valuation math.
Separate revenue synergies from cost synergies, then test whether each is realistic and executable.