How fraud affects value — and valuation
Businesses lose an average of 7% of their annual revenues to fraud, according to the 2008 Report to the Nation on Occupational Fraud & Abuse issued by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. This article discusses what fraud consists of, how it may affect value, and how appraisers take fraud risk into account when valuing companies. The article points out, however, that appraisers need to beware of double-counting the effect of fraud risk on value, which may cause them to undervalue business interests.

Less can be more
When calculations offer an alternative to valuations
Calculations can be an efficient, economical alternative to detailed, written valuation reports — but only under the right circumstances. This article explains what a calculation is, identifies the pros and cons, and considers some examples of when a calculation might (or might not) work. The article notes that whether or not a calculation will work depends on the engagement specifics, including the appraisal’s intended use, the interest being valued and the availability of information.

Statistics add value to appraisals
Statistical analyses can supplement an appraiser’s professional judgment, adding sophistication and credibility to the business valuation. This article looks at regression analysis and uses an example to illustrate how a regression analysis can help an appraiser build stronger, more defendable valuations. The article points out that regression analysis, like any statistical tool, cannot substitute for a valuator’s judgment and experience.