The Discount Rate is calculated as 100% minus the percent discount the SAFE investors are entitled to. For example, if SAFE investors are entitled to a discount of 20% (they can buy Standard Preferred Stock 20% cheaper than subsequent investors), the Discount Rate is 80% = 100% - 20%.
Equity agreements commonly contain the following components: Equity program. This section outlines the details of the investment plan, including its purpose, conditions, and objectives. It also serves as a statement of intention to create a legal relationship between both parties.
For example, if a SAFE has a valuation cap of $10 million, and your startup's next financing round values the company at $15 million, the SAFE investor's equity will be calculated based on the $10 million cap, not the $15 million valuation.
Preferred equity is part of the real estate capital stack — in other words, a type of financing a sponsor or developer will employ as part of the aggregate capital raise for a given real estate project.
The SAFE discount is derived by dividing the valuation cap by the typical equity financing valuation and then removing that value from one (representing no discount). In this case, $2 million / $4 million = 0.5 and 1 – 0.5 = 0.5 would be the mathematical representations. Discounts often vary from 0% to 20%.
How to negotiate a SAFE agreement Understand the terms and conditions. Create a term sheet that outlines the conditions you're willing to accept and those you want to negotiate. Align interests with investors. Find investors who offer more than just capital. Come in with a plan. Focus on building relationships.
The Discount Rate is calculated as 100% minus the percent discount the SAFE investors are entitled to. For example, if SAFE investors are entitled to a discount of 20% (they can buy Standard Preferred Stock 20% cheaper than subsequent investors), the Discount Rate is 80% = 100% - 20%.
An equity discount rate range of 12% to 20%, give or take, is likely to be considered reasonable in a business valuation. This is about in line with the long-term anticipated returns quoted to private equity investors, which makes sense, because a business valuation is an equity interest in a privately held company.