The influx of automated valuation models and the demand for accredited professionals are two major challenges the business valuation profession faces, says Christine Sawchuk, president and CEO of the CBV Institute, Canada’s valuation professional organization (VPO), in an interview. The proliferation of automated tools allows more individuals to offer valuation services, but they may not be qualified to do so. “While such technologies can be used as tools to support decision-making and communication, they cannot replace critical thought and professional analysis to achieve the most informed view for business decision-making,” she says.

She also observes that market demand for professionals accredited in business valuation is currently at an all-time high. “While this is excellent news for growth in the valuation profession, particularly amongst young professionals, it may be an ongoing challenge for us and other VPOs to keep reinforcing to the market that formal valuation education and accreditation is a professional imperative, and in the public interest,” she says.