Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are complex transactions that require careful consideration of various legal, financial, and operational factors. One of these factors is sanctions compliance, which is often overlooked or underestimated by the parties involved. Sanctions, which are imposed by international organizations or countries against certain countries, individuals, or entities for political or policy reasons, can have a significant impact on the feasibility, risk, and value of M&A transactions.
How does sanctions compliance affect M&A transactions?
Sanctions compliance plays a crucial role in M&A transactions in several ways:
Due diligence
Due diligence is the process of thoroughly investigating a target company to assess its assets, liabilities, potential risks, and overall business viability. This process becomes even more complicated when the target company operates in multiple jurisdictions, especially those under sanctions.
Companies must screen potential M&A targets and their ownership structures to determine whether they have any connections to sanctioned countries or Specially Designated Nationals (SDNs). This includes identifying whether targets have subsidiaries, investments, or other business dealings in sanctioned jurisdictions. If they identify sanctions risks, companies must evaluate whether the risks can be mitigated or whether to abandon the deal.
Risk assessment
Risk assessment is the process of analyzing and quantifying the potential risks associated with an M&A transaction. This process involves not only financial and operational risks, but also regulatory and reputational risks.
If a target company is found to be non-compliant with sanctions, it can significantly increase the risk exposure of the acquirer. This can result in regulatory penalties, such as fines and imprisonment, which can affect the profitability and valuation of the deal. It can also result in reputational penalties, such as loss of trust and goodwill from customers, investors, regulators, and other stakeholders.
Deal structuring
Deal structuring is the process of designing and negotiating the terms and conditions of an M&A transaction. This process involves legal, financial, tax, accounting, and operational aspects.
Sanctions compliance can affect deal structuring in various ways. For example:
- Sanctions can limit the financing options available for an M&A transaction. Some lenders may be reluctant or prohibited from providing loans or guarantees to companies involved in sanctioned activities or jurisdictions.
- Sanctions can affect the payment methods and currencies used for an M&A transaction. Some payment systems or banks may restrict or block the processing of transactions involving sanctioned parties or countries.
- Sanctions can affect the ownership and control arrangements of an M&A transaction. Some sanctions may prohibit or require prior authorization for acquiring or transferring ownership or control of certain assets or entities.
How can companies manage sanctions compliance in M&A transactions?
Sanctions compliance is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process that requires constant monitoring and updating. Companies involved in M&A transactions should adopt a proactive and comprehensive approach to manage sanctions compliance effectively. Some best practices include:
Engaging compliance experts
Companies should involve compliance experts at every stage of an M&A transaction, from due diligence to deal structuring to post-closing integration. Compliance experts can help identify and assess sanctions risks, advise on mitigation strategies, conduct screening and audits, provide training and guidance, and liaise with regulators if needed.
Conducting thorough due diligence
Companies should conduct thorough due diligence on potential M&A targets and their ownership structures using reliable sources of information and screening tools. Due diligence should cover not only current sanctions exposure but also past violations or investigations that could indicate systemic deficiencies or red flags.
Negotiating appropriate terms
Companies should negotiate appropriate terms and conditions for an M&A transaction that reflect the level of sanctions risk involved. This may include representations and warranties, indemnities, escrows, covenants, termination rights, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Companies should also ensure that the terms are enforceable and consistent with applicable laws and regulations.
Implementing effective compliance programs
Companies should implement effective compliance programs specific to the nature and scope of their business activities and M&A transactions. Compliance programs should include policies and procedures, risk assessments, screening and monitoring systems, training and awareness, reporting and record-keeping, and internal controls and audits.
Conclusion
Sanctions compliance is a critical factor that can influence the success or failure of M&A transactions. Companies involved in M&A transactions should be aware of the potential sanctions risks and challenges, and take proactive steps to manage them effectively. By doing so, companies can avoid regulatory and reputational penalties. They can also thereby enhance their competitive advantage and create value for their stakeholders.
