What role do investment bankers play during mergers and acquisitions?

Investment bankers play a crucial role in the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) process by facilitating the transaction process. This includes a range of responsibilities such as advising clients on the strategic aspects of a deal, valuing the target company, conducting due diligence, and helping negotiate terms of the acquisition or merger. They are skilled in assessing the financial and operational aspects of the companies involved and can provide insights that contribute to a successful transaction.

Their expertise also extends to structuring the deal in a way that aligns with the goals of both parties and managing the logistics involved in closing the transaction. This encompasses everything from organizing meetings and presentations to advising on regulatory considerations and financing methods. By orchestrating the various components of the deal, investment bankers ensure that the process runs smoothly and efficiently.

The other options highlight important functions in the corporate finance landscape but do not accurately capture the primary role in M&A. Legal advice is typically provided by attorneys specializing in corporate law, while underwriting securities primarily pertains to helping companies raise capital rather than facilitating M&A. Handling public relations is an essential aspect but is usually managed by communication or PR professionals rather than investment bankers.