Lucky the Banker mascotLTB
Series 79: M&A, Tender Offers & Restructuring
Series 79 practice questionhardLeveraged Buyouts

In an LBO, if the debt/EBITDA ratio at closing is 7.0x, and the business plan projects EBITDA growth of 10% annually, what is the most likely driver for achieving a private equity sponsor’s target IRR?

  1. ARapid EBITDA growth and debt paydown to increase equity value✓ Correct answer
  2. BDividend recapitalizations year one
  3. CA reduction in the purchase price post-closing
  4. DUse of seller financing at high interest rates
Explanation

Why ARapid EBITDA growth and debt paydown to increase equity value

High initial leverage magnifies the impact of EBITDA growth and debt paydown on equity returns, which are key to driving IRR. Dividend recaps and price reductions are less feasible or relevant in this scenario, and seller financing at high rates burdens returns.

Turn it into reps

Reading one answer is not the same as being ready

Lucky the Banker is a free practice app with 995+ Series 79 questions, weak-area tracking, and timed mock exams. No credit card, no paywall.

Spot an error in this question or explanation? Tell us — we fix these fast.

Related M&A, Tender Offers & Restructuring questions