Due Diligence
The comprehensive appraisal of a business undertaken by a prospective buyer, particularly to establish its assets and liabilities and evaluate its commercial potential.
Implications
The comprehensive appraisal of a business or investment, typically conducted before a transaction such as a merger, acquisition, or investment, to assess risks, validate financials, and ensure that all relevant aspects are understood by the parties involved.
Example
Example: Before acquiring a smaller competitor, a healthcare company conducts due diligence, reviewing financial statements, legal contracts, and regulatory compliance to ensure there are no hidden liabilities.
Related Terms
Different from a simple review, due diligence is an in-depth process that often involves multiple aspects of the business, including financials, operations, legal issues, and market position.