Disadvantages of an asset sale More complex: Since individual assets need to be transferred, the transaction can be more time-consuming and require more paperwork. Consents and assignments: Some contracts or agreements may require specific consents or approvals for the transfer of assets.
The benefit of an asset sale, from the buyer's perspective, is that it can select which assets and liabilities to acquire in the deal, compared to a stock sale or merger, where the buyer acquires all the assets and liabilities of the target.
Your company will also still exist after an asset sale, and administratively you will still need to take steps to dissolve the company and deal with any remaining liabilities and assets. Unlike a stock sale, 100% of the interests of a company can usually be transferred without the consent of all of the stockholders.
In an asset sale, the ownership of these acquired assets would change hands, with the buyer negotiating separately for each asset. In a stock sale, ownership of such assets does not change hands in the same way. The target still retains its ownership typically, even if the target has a new owner.
Disadvantages of Asset Sale The seller is subject to a double layer of taxation. Transferring assets may be more complicated. Agreements tied to certain assets may need to be renegotiated.
An equity sale refers to the sale of the common shares of a company, instead of only the assets. When an equity sale occurs, the company remains exactly the same with only the ownership structure changing hands between the seller and the buyer.
In an asset sale, the ownership of these acquired assets would change hands, with the buyer negotiating separately for each asset. In a stock sale, ownership of such assets does not change hands in the same way. The target still retains its ownership typically, even if the target has a new owner.
In an asset sale, the seller retains possession of the legal entity and the buyer purchases individual assets of the company, such as equipment, fixtures, leaseholds, licenses, goodwill, trade secrets, trade names, telephone numbers, and inventory.
Assets are things your business owns. Liabilities are what your business owes to third parties. Equity is the value left over for the owners. This is summarized in the golden rule of accounting: assets equal liabilities plus equity.
Asset sales offer tax advantages and selective asset acquisition, but can be complex and require additional time and costs. Equity sales provide simplicity and continuity, but require the buyer to assume all liabilities. Both types of transactions involve important accounting considerations and post-close diligence.