A comprehensive research project where you pick or are assigned a company, build a model, and prepare a presentation or investment memo.
A private equity case interview is a simulation of a real-world investment opportunity, where you're presented with a hypothetical company or industry and asked to analyze its potential for investment. The goal is to assess your ability to think critically, analyze complex data, and communicate your findings effectively.
A "back-of-the-envelope" math test typically given in early rounds. You use basic numbers to estimate returns without a computer. private equity case interview
Elias capped the marker. "I go back to the shop floor. The case study says 'manufacturer.' But are they?"
"During years two through four, I don't just cut costs. I invest the cash flow into R&D. I launch a 'Smart-Brew' line—IoT connected machines for offices. It’s not a huge revenue driver, maybe adds $20M to the top line, but it changes the narrative. Now I’m a tech company, not a hardware company." A comprehensive research project where you pick or
[Your Name] Firm: [Target PE Fund Name] Case Type: Leveraged Buyout (LBO) / Platform Investment Target Company: [e.g., “MediTech Solutions” – a healthcare IT provider] Date: [Current Date]
Common at firms like McKinsey, BCG, and Bain , focusing on commercial due diligence rather than deep financial modeling. The Core Framework for Analysis A "back-of-the-envelope" math test typically given in early
Acquire at 10x LTM EBITDA ($125M EV) using 5.5x debt-to-EBITDA leverage. The base case yields a 3.1x MOIC and 27% IRR over 5 years, exceeding our fund’s hurdle of 2.5x / 20%.