Explore the emerging trends and opportunities in the distressed asset market, such as COVID-19 impact, ESG integration, digital transformation, and more.

I think that the role of the board is more critical than ever when companies trend toward the zone of insolvency. The board that sees issues early and actively engages with management will contribute to the success of the outcome and preservation of value for all stakeholders.

What are the emerging trends and opportunities in the distressed asset market?

The distressed asset market is where investors can buy assets or debt of companies that are under financial or operational stress, often at a significant discount. However, this market also involves high risks, complex negotiations, and legal challenges. In this article, we will explore some of the emerging trends and opportunities in the distressed asset market, and how you can prepare yourself for this dynamic and competitive field.

1 COVID-19 impact

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented disruption and uncertainty in many industries and sectors, creating a surge of distressed assets and opportunities for investors. However, the pandemic has also introduced new complexities and variables in the valuation, due diligence, and restructuring of these assets. For example, some distressed assets may benefit from government support, regulatory relief, or market recovery, while others may face permanent impairment or liquidation. Therefore, investors need to be flexible, agile, and creative in assessing and pursuing these opportunities.

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2 ESG integration

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors are becoming increasingly important and influential in the distressed asset market, as investors, regulators, and stakeholders demand more transparency and accountability from companies. ESG integration can help investors identify and mitigate potential risks, enhance value creation, and align with long-term goals and expectations. For example, investors can use ESG criteria to evaluate the sustainability and resilience of a distressed company's business model, operations, and reputation, and to implement best practices and improvements in the restructuring process.

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Sharon Manewitz
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I think that the role of the board is more critical than ever when companies trend toward the zone of insolvency. The board that sees issues early and actively engages with management will contribute to the success of the outcome and preservation of value for all stakeholders.

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3 Digital transformation

Digital transformation is another key trend and opportunity in the distressed asset market, as technology plays a vital role in enabling and accelerating the turnaround and recovery of distressed companies. Digital transformation can help investors improve efficiency, productivity, innovation, and customer satisfaction, as well as reduce costs, risks, and errors. For example, investors can use digital tools and platforms to streamline and automate the acquisition process, enhance data analysis and decision making, and optimize communication and collaboration.

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Sharon Manewitz
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Digitization is key to dealing with big data and preservation of information. Boards must ensure that all directors are technology literate. Providing directors with tech support must not be overlooked.

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4 Sector specialization

Sector specialization is a crucial factor for success in the distressed asset market, as different industries and sectors have different drivers, dynamics, and challenges that require specific knowledge, expertise, and networks. Sector specialization can help investors gain a competitive edge, identify and access attractive opportunities, and tailor effective and customized solutions. For example, investors can leverage their sector insights and relationships to evaluate the market potential, competitive landscape, and regulatory environment of a distressed company, and to negotiate favorable terms and conditions.

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5 Global diversification

Global diversification is a valuable strategy for investors in the distressed asset market, as it can help them expand their scope, reach, and returns, as well as reduce their exposure and dependence on a single market or region. Global diversification can help investors capitalize on the different trends, cycles, and opportunities that exist across different geographies and jurisdictions. For example, investors can explore emerging markets that offer higher growth potential, lower valuations, and less competition, or developed markets that offer more stability, transparency, and legal protection.

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6 Skill development

Skill development is an essential requirement for investors in the distressed asset market, as it can help them enhance their capabilities, performance, and reputation in this complex and demanding field. Skill development can help investors acquire and update their technical, analytical, and interpersonal skills, as well as their industry knowledge and market awareness. For example, investors can enroll in courses, programs, or certifications that cover topics such as restructuring, valuation, due diligence, negotiation, or ESG integration.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are the emerging trends and opportunities in the distressed asset market?

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1 COVID-19 impact

2 ESG integration

3 Digital transformation

4 Sector specialization

5 Global diversification

6 Skill development

7 Here’s what else to consider

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