In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Morten Lykke Pedersen, a seasoned financial expert and Partner at Deloitte, where he leads the financial modeling division within the Strategy, Risk, and Transaction Advisory group. Morten discusses his extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), strategic financial modeling, and how financial models can empower businesses to make informed, data-driven decisions. He also shares insights on the importance of collaboration during the modeling process, tips for ensuring client engagement, and the role of financial models in presenting a company’s equity story.

Morten Lykke Pedersen, CFA, CFM, is a financial expert with over a decade of experience. He specializes in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), providing strategic insights that empower businesses to optimize their strategies through forecasting and risk assessment. Morten's career spans notable roles, including his tenure at PwC, where he managed valuation and modeling services. At Deloitte, Morten is dedicated to guiding businesses through complex transactions and strategic initiatives, helping them navigate industry dynamics and execute transformative transactions successfully. He holds a CFA charter and certifications in financial modeling, and his educational journey includes advanced degrees from Aarhus University, Saint Mary’s University, and the CFA Institute.

Expect to Learn

• The critical role of collaboration in transaction modeling
• How to build financial models that communicate a company’s story and manage risk
• The importance of scenario analysis in M&A transactions
• Why financial models should reflect business realities, not just numbers
• How formal training programs, like the Chartered Financial Modeler (CFM), can elevate modeling skills and team capabilities

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Financial modeling is about understanding the business, not just crunching numbers.” - Morten Lykke Pedersen
• “A financial model should only do what it’s supposed to do, keep it simple and fit for purpose.” - Morten Lykke Pedersen
• “It’s not about the formulas; it’s about making sure the people who own the numbers understand what’s going on in the model.” - Morten Lykke Pedersen

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LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mortenlykkepedersen/?originalSubdomain=dk

Company - https://www.linkedin.com/company/deloitte/

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In today’s episode:

[02:16] - Guest Background

[03:43] - Worst Model Horror Story

[07:58] - Client Engagement

[11:52] - Conveying Company Value

[13:35] - Supporting Assumptions with Data

[21:11] - The CFM Journey with Morten's Team

[31:19] - Favorite Excel shortcut.

[32:14] - The Number One Career Lesson

[33:39] - Rapid-Fire Questions

[37:38] - Final Advice