How do valuations typically differ between public and private companies in mergers and acquisitions?

Valuations typically exhibit distinct approaches when comparing public and private companies due to their varying characteristics and available data. Focusing on why the selected answer is correct, private valuations often bring a greater emphasis on financial projections and comparables.

In this context, financial projections for private companies often rely on forecasts that take into account trends, industry benchmarks, and management's expectations. Unlike public companies that have more accessible and transparent financial data through regulated disclosures, private companies may require a more nuanced understanding of their potential performance based on future growth and operational metrics. Comparables also play a significant role; valuators examine similar private transactions to ascertain a fair market value, adapting the analysis to the context and unique attributes of the company being assessed.

Public companies, in contrast, benefit from the liquidity and information available in the public market, which allows for more straightforward valuation methods such as using market capitalization and established multiples derived from trading activity. This increased accessibility to data can lead to valuations that are more influenced by market sentiment and less reliant on subjective projections when compared to private firms. Therefore, private valuations are distinctly characterized by a thorough focus on projections and comparables to navigate through the less transparent data availability and fluctuating market perceptions.