Johnny Depp, now 56 years old, has started to feel that his acting career is about to get over. His net worth crossed over $650 million at the peak of his career but has since dwindled, amid lawsuits and lifestyle expenses. As such, he thinks that his current wealth might not be enough for his upcoming years. So, he’s hired you as a consultant to help him find ways to multiply his worth. What can you suggest?
1. What are the client's existing businesses?
2. What are the asset classes that the client is interested in exploring?
3. Let's develop a long list of potential businesses - what are some of the potential businesses where the client can best leverage his brand?
After initial 3-4 ideas, the interviewer shall pressure test the candidate's suggestions. For example, would investing in F-1 or soccer clubs in Europe effectively leverage the Depp brand?
The interviewer shall push the candidate to come up with concrete suggestions and take one of the suggestions to discuss rationale. For example, ask if the suggestion is to invest in a sports team, ask the candidate to explain the rationale.
Pressure test candidate to come up with an even longer list of suggestions in quick succession.
4. What will be the criterion to come up with a shortlist for suggestions?
The long list of suggestions is interesting. What in your view are the most relevant shortlisting criterion for the client?
Using the shortlisted criterion, which are the top 3-4 potential businesses as per candidate, where further deep dive can be conducted?
This is an unconventional case example to help you prepare for your interviews at MBB. This is based on a real case asked at one of the big 3. The purpose of your case is to be creative and think on your feet in an unconventional way.