Precedent transactions analysis is based on the premise that the value of a company can be estimated by analyzing the prices paid by purchasers of similar companies under similar circumstances. This analysis assists in the understanding of (i) multiples and premiums paid in a specific industry and (ii) how other parties assess "private market" valuations. The purpose is similar to that of comparable companies analysis, except that examining prior acquisitions can give a sense of the premium paid to gain control of the target (the "control premium"). Because of the control premium, transaction multiples are generally higher than trading multiples.
Like other valuation techniques, precedent transaction analysis is as much art as it is science. Interpretation of the data requires familiarity with the industry and the assets involved. In a valuation context, it is sometimes advisable to identify a small subset of a broader group of precedent transactions. These "most comparable deals" should be studied in more detail to get a better understanding of the circumstances leading to the specific valuation levels.