M&A Fee Structure Designed to Align Incentives
Success-based model — we do not charge retainers. This ensures our incentives are fully aligned with the actual cash you receive, moving away from industry-standard headline prices that do not reflect the final proceeds.
100% Success-Based for Sellers and Companies Raising Capital
No retainers, no monthly fees, no interim charges — you only pay us when your deal completes.
Aligned With Your Outcome
Fees are calculated on the equity value you receive, using a transparent Lehman-style scale that is standard in UK M&A — not on total enterprise value or debt — so you pay much less.
Success Fee Scale
| Transaction value (equity value for acquisitions, equity proceeds for capital raises) | Success fee rate |
|---|---|
| Up to £5m | 5% |
| £5m – £10m | 4% |
| £10m – £25m | 3% |
| £25m – £50m | 2% |
| Over £50m | 1% (by agreement) |
The minimum success fee is £130,000, irrespective of deal size. This Lehman-style fee scale is set out in our engagement letter and may be adjusted in special cases by prior agreement. For cross-border transactions, a tailored fee structure applies — please contact us for details.
How We Compare
| Deal Ascent | Other M&A advisers | |
|---|---|---|
| Success fee only | Yes | Typically charge a retainer fee |
| No retainer, monthly or interim fee | Yes | Typically charge a fee |
| Basis for M&A success fee | Equity value | Enterprise value (equity value + debt) |
| Minimum success fee | £130k | Typically much higher (£400k+) |