Which step in an LBO model involves determining the exit and calculating equity returns?

• A. Step 2
• B. Step 3
• C. Step 4
• D. Step 5

Answer: (D)

The main thing being tested is when you finalize how the investment will be exited and how much equity will actually earn. In an LBO model, you project the company forward, then at the end you simulate the sale of the business and translate that sale into proceeds for the equity investors. This involves estimating the exit enterprise value (often via an EBITDA-based exit multiple or other valuation method), paying off any remaining debt, and then determining the equity value at exit. With that exit equity value, you calculate the returns to equity holders—typically the IRR and the cash-on-cash multiple—which is the ultimate measure of performance for the investment. So the final step is where exit planning and equity-return calculations come together, using all prior assumptions and cash flows to show how the investment would be realized.