What does it mean to buy an AG?
Buying an AG means acquiring a stock corporation or a stake in it. Depending on the offer, this may be an operating company with customers, contracts and employees, or a company structure with a different starting point.
Which figures matter when buying an AG?
Revenue, profit, cash flow, debt, equity, recurring income, customer concentration, investment needs and the development over recent years are especially important. These figures show whether price and risk fit together.
What are the risks of buying an existing AG?
Risks can arise from old obligations, taxes, contracts, legal disputes, employee matters, dependence on a few customers or owners and incomplete documents. Careful review before purchase is therefore essential.
How is the value of an AG assessed?
Value depends on earnings power, substance, market position, contracts, risks and future prospects. The listing price is an initial indication, but it does not replace valuation based on business documents.
Which documents should I review before buying an AG?
Relevant documents include financial statements, current figures, contracts, articles of association, commercial register data, shareholder structure, tax records, liabilities, staff information and details on customers, suppliers and ongoing projects.
What is the difference between buying an AG and an AG shell?
When buying an AG, the focus is often on activity, customers, business assets or contracts. With an AG shell, the existing legal entity is central; its history and obligations need especially careful review.
When can a GmbH be more suitable than an AG?
A GmbH may be more suitable if the buyer is looking for a smaller owner-managed business or a simpler ownership structure. The specific company remains more important than the legal form alone.
Can an AG be acquired as part of a succession?
Yes. Many AG acquisitions are succession cases. In that situation, the handover phase, the role of the current owners, customer relationships, employees and operational continuity are especially important.