Written by two investment bankers, Investment Banking is centered on the primary valuation methodologies currently used on Wall Street, namely Comparable Companies Analysis, Precedent Transactions Analysis, Discounted Cash Flow Analysis, and Leveraged Buyout Analysis. These methodologies are used to determine valuation for public and private companies, most notably for mergers & acquisitions transactions, leveraged buyouts, and initial public offerings. They also form the cornerstone for valuing companies on a standalone basis, including an assessment of whether a given public company is overvalued or undervalued. Using a step-by-step "how to" approach for each methodology, Josh R. and Josh P. build a chronological knowledge base and define key terms, financial concepts, and processes throughout the book. The authors also provide context for the various valuation methodologies through a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of LBOs and an organized M&A sale process, including key participants, financing sources, strategies, and legal and marketing documentation.In the aftermath of the subprime mortgage crisis and the ensuing credit crunch, the world of finance is returning to the fundamentals of valuation and critical due diligence for acquisition and investment opportunities. This involves the use of more realistic assumptions governing approach to risk as well as a wide range of valuation drivers such as expected future company financial performance, discount rates, multiples, leverage, and terms. While valuation has always involved a great deal of "art" in addition to time-tested "science," the artistry is constantly evolving in accordance with market developments and conditions. In this sense, this book is particularly topical in addition to detailing the technical fundamentals behind valuation, the authors infuse practical judgment skills and perspective to help guide the science.