A Leading Provider of Independent Business Valuations for Technology Companies

The Brenner Group® has provided hundreds of independent third-party valuations for IRC 409A compliance and SFAS 123(R) compliance. Our specialty is valuing technology businesses and technology centric assets. To determine value, our professionals analyze each client's business and financial plans, history, projections, and comparable companies and transactions. We have been engaged by more than 300 clients to value securities for tax, financial reporting, and litigation purposes.

Tax valuation

Under IRC 409A, privately owned companies are now required to establish that stock options are not being issued below fair market value at the time granted—a potential tax liability for both the company and the employee. Companies either considering or currently issuing stock options to employees should consider an independent IRC 409A valuation—no less frequently than once every 12 months or more frequently if the Board believes there has been a positive change in the business which could result in an increase in the implied market value of the security subject to the option (generally common or preferred stock).

Financial reporting valuation

The Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 123R mandates that affected companies must expense stock options and other forms of equity based employee compensation. Among other things, they must provide the basis for the value of the equity (often an independent valuation), track all equity compensation activity, calculate fair value, and adjust employee income tax deductions. Depending on the number of employees receiving awards, the frequency of grants, and the variability of the terms – ongoing administration and compliance can pose a significant burden. The Brenner Group has in-depth expertise in SFAS 123(R) calculations and is poised to help Silicon Valley clients properly expense their option charges.

Litigation support valuation

Our litigation professionals have extensive experience in litigation support engagements. The scope of our engagements includes developing and providing direct testimony before state and circuit courts, as well as the United States Bankruptcy Court and arbitrators, regarding financial valuation matters, such as going concern values, corporate equity values, solvency, intangible-asset values, and valuation methodology. The Brenner Group's professionals combine theoretical and academically supportable financial analyses with demonstrable transactional experience to reach appropriate, supportable, and credible financial solutions to difficult business issues.

When facing disputes that may lead to litigation or dealing with complex business matters, attorneys rely on our consultative and professional services to clarify facts, quantify damages, and communicate findings in a clear, objective and persuasive manner.