🏢 IT Mergers & Acquisitions. Real Talk. No Fluff.
In this episode of Cogent Conversations, we break down what truly drives value in MSP mergers and acquisitions. If you’re a managed service provider considering growth, acquisition, or exit planning, this is essential listening.
Rick Murphy and the Cogent team share practical insight from 200+ completed MSP transactions. They clarify the reality behind “mergers of equals,” explain how buyers evaluate profitability, and reveal why recurring contracted revenue matters more than revenue multiples.
💡 Top 3 Highlights:
1️⃣ Why true mergers are rare — and what sellers must decide before pursuing a deal
2️⃣ The real valuation drivers: profitability, retention, recurring revenue, and low customer concentration
3️⃣ The accounting mistakes (cash vs. accrual, deferred revenue errors) that can cost you millions
📊 You’ll also learn how clean contracts, accurate financial reporting, and operational discipline increase buyer confidence — even if you never sell.
If you want clarity on how to build a business buyers actually want, this conversation delivers straight answers.

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🔷 About Cogent Conversations
Cogent Conversations is a straight-talk podcast focused on IT mergers and acquisitions for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and technology services firms.
Hosted by Rick Murphy, CEO of Cogent Growth Partners, the show dives deep into the realities of MSP growth, valuation, acquisition strategy, leadership transitions, and exit planning. 💼📈
This is not theory. It’s practical, real-world insight from years of buy-side and sell-side experience in the IT services space.
Whether you're:
✔️ Scaling your MSP
✔️ Preparing for a future exit
✔️ Exploring mergers or acquisitions
✔️ Looking to increase EBITDA and enterprise value
Cogent Conversations delivers clarity on what buyers actually look for — and how to run your business today so you’re ready tomorrow.
If you’re serious about growth, valuation, and long-term strategy in the MSP industry, this podcast belongs in your regular rotation.

🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfQZUgOM_11e6AHcS-dlqYg
🌐 Web: https://cogentmergers.com/
🔗 Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cogent-growth-partners-llc/
👤 Rick Murphy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramurph/


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