Don’t Just Check a Box: Dig Deeper Than Public Filings
Sure, it’s standard to review a company’s formation docs, ownership structure, and state filings—but that’s just the start. If you’re only relying on what’s filed with the Secretary of State or on annual reports, you’re playing defense.
Savvy acquirers cross-check everything.
Here’s how to dig deeper and protect your client or portfolio:
· Verify that what’s on paper matches real-world operations
· Compare internal documents to what’s on file
· Align seller disclosures with your own independent findings
· Follow up aggressively on inconsistencies
Bottom line: Public records are a starting point—but they rarely tell the full story. Great diligence means filling in the blanks, not just checking the boxes.