Navigating the Future: AI’s Impact on Mergers and Acquisitions
In a recent episode of Phoenix Business RadioX, host Karen Nowicki engaged in a conversation with Rabie Zahri, CEO of Positon AI, and Craig Lilly, a partner at Reed Smith LLP, shedding light on the transformative impact of AI on mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Zahri discussed Positon AI’s innovative approach, leveraging AI to enhance the efficiency of M&A processes. He emphasized the crucial role of AI in due diligence, citing specific examples such as AI-assisted question platforms and bluff reports for streamlined information summarization. Zahri underlined the need for human oversight in critical decision-making, while also touching upon the future potential of quantum computing.
Craig contributed valuable insights into the current dynamics of the M&A market, highlighting pricing misalignments between buyers and sellers. He explored creative solutions, including earnouts, M&A insurance, and minority investments, to address these challenges. Craig also emphasized the significance of alignment in goals, values, and equity ownership for successful post-closing integration. Looking ahead, Zahri outlined Positon’s focus on improving deal execution governance and performance management, aiming to create a business network facilitating companies to be investment-ready. In contrast, Lilly anticipated increased M&A activity for Reed Smith LLP, particularly in AI, cybersecurity, sustainability, and healthcare, preparing for a potential surge in IPOs in 2024.
This episode illuminated the multifaceted landscape of AI’s role in M&A, addressing trust, data privacy, and the need for innovative strategies to navigate the evolving market dynamics. The discussions underscored the collaborative efforts of technology-driven firms and legal experts to adapt and thrive in the changing landscape of business acquisitions.
Positon AI is dedicated to revolutionizing the Mergers and Acquisitions space with our SaaS-based, AI-powered platform, addressing the complexities of M&A workflow and data management. We offer an innovative, secure, and efficient solution that transcends traditional tools, setting new standards in the industry
Rabie Zahri is an acclaimed entrepreneur and business trailblazer, currently steering the helm as Co-Founder and CEO of Positon AI, an AI-powered SaaS venture shaking up the world of M&A and investment. Rooted in a potent blend of curiosity and intellect, Rabie is widely known for his solution-oriented approach, which he applies to the creation and market delivery of innovative products.
Educated at Arizona State University and Thunderbird School of Global Management, Rabie possesses a profound grasp of computer engineering and international business, making him a unique combination of tech-savvy and business-minded.
Rabie’s career journey is a diverse tapestry of roles, from software engineering and consulting at companies like On-Semiconductor and Hypercom (Verifone) to leadership positions at Hewlett Packard Enterprise. His latest venture, Positon AI, leverages AI and data analytics to revolutionize M&A and investment processes.
Known for his effective collective leadership style, Rabie has an innate ability to navigate ambiguity, lead by example, and drive his teams towards exceptional outcomes. A captivating speaker, Rabie is a regular feature on panels and keynotes, where he shares his insights, ignites ideas, and inspires audiences. His enthusiasm for solving complex problems and fostering innovation is not just infectious but also deeply transformative, making him a sought-after figure for any thought-provoking event.
Connect with Rabie on LinkedIn and X.
Reed Smith is a leading international law firm with more than 1,800 lawyers in 32 offices throughout the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Founded in 1877, the firm represents leading international and US businesses, from Fortune 100 corporations to mid-market and emerging enterprises.
Its lawyers execute the full range of merger and acquisition transactions, litigation and regulatory compliance. Reed Smith is a preeminent advisor to industries including technology, AI, health care, life sciences, telecommunications, entertainment, energy and financial services.
Craig Lilly is a leading legal advisor for strategics and private equity sponsors on domestic and cross-border technology acquisitions, mergers, divestitures, recapitalizations, consolidations, auctions, leveraged buyouts, and minority investments.
Craig’s practice includes advising emerging technology companies on venture capital financings, debt financings, corporate governance, public offerings and joint ventures. He also represents fund sponsors in connection with structuring and organizing investment funds.
Craig frequently writes and lectures on legal and business issues regarding mergers and acquisitions, private equity investments and corporate finance. He has been quoted in, or contributed to, articles and features in Bloomberg, The Wall Street Journal, The Deal Magazine, Reuters, Financier Worldwide, CFO.com and other major publications.
Craig is a member of the Board of Directors of The Association for Corporate Growth and Financial Executives International (Silicon Valley chapters).
