🔍 Rigor, strategy, and vision in every transaction

In the latest episode of DEALS with Gonçalo Almeida, we welcomed Maria Koch, Partner at VK Partners and one of the most respected professionals in financial and tax due diligence in the Portuguese market.

With a career built around deep business analysis and deal structuring, Maria takes us behind the scenes of complex processes, from recurring challenges in SMEs to the most decisive conversations she’s had between buyers and sellers.

💼 We talked about common mistakes, the details business owners often overlook (especially from a tax perspective), and what it really takes to prepare an SME for a successful and value-driven sale.

At a time when the market is increasingly pressured to close deals quickly, Maria emphasizes the importance of maintaining rigor and clarity — even when everything feels uncertain.

🧠 Throughout the episode, we also explored the most tense moments, the lessons that had the greatest impact on her journey, and how the right words, said at the right time, can change the course of a negotiation.

At Harbor Partners, we believe value creation starts long before the contract is signed. It begins with preparation, reading the numbers correctly, and having the courage to say “no” when necessary. Maria embodies that spirit: technical, objective, and with a sharp eye for what truly matters.

🎧 The full episode is now available on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts.

#DueDiligence #MergersAndAcquisitions #BusinessTransactions #SMESale #HarborPartners #DealsWithGonçaloAlmeida #SME #FinancialControl #BusinessTaxation #CorporateFinance #VKPartners