Global markets have reacted to the immediate and perceived economic impacts of the COVID-19 (also known as coronavirus) health crisis. Current economic weakness is expected to continue in the near term, driven by substantial and developing shocks to supply and demand dynamics and associated operational challenges across sectors.

Houlihan Lokey is well positioned to assist clients in this environment with an integrated suite of advisory and execution capabilities across capital markets, restructuring, M&A, and board advisory and opinions. The firm’s diverse capabilities allow clients to simultaneously pursue multiple paths to ensure the best outcome possible, whether it be liability management, a comprehensive refinancing, rescue financing, out-of-court restructuring, asset/business sale, etc.

The Capital Markets team is at the forefront, providing access to capital when traditional markets/providers are inappropriate or unreceptive. In 2019, the team successfully raised more than $11 billion for clients across 55 transactions.

In the current environment, companies may explore financing alternatives that include funding from an existing large block or control shareholder or group of investors. These sources of potential capital may have a number advantages, including familiarity with the company and the ability to act in an expedited manner. However, such related-party financing alternatives can create the appearance of a conflict, if not an actual conflict, that the company’s board would be well advised to address. Houlihan Lokey is a leading provider of independent advice, negotiating support, fairness opinions, and other financial opinions to boards and special committees of public companies and sponsor-backed businesses across a range of related-party transactions.