I have an investment case study , how would one write an investment memorandum? Are there examples I can find? How Do I reference the work?

Hi there,

Here’s how to approach it:

1. Structure of an investment memo:
Most memos follow this outline:

• Executive summary (1 page max): deal overview, key merits/risks, recommendation
• Company overview: business model, industry, positioning
• Market analysis: size, growth, trends, competition
• Financials: historicals, key KPIs, projections, valuation
• Investment thesis: 3–5 clear points why this is attractive
• Risks & mitigants: main concerns and how to manage them
• Exit strategy: likely exit routes, potential buyers, return profile

2. Style:
Use bullet points, charts, and visuals when possible. Clarity and conciseness are key. Keep it analytical, not descriptive.

3. Examples:
Actual PE memos are usually confidential, but some sanitized or public examples exist online (search for: “investment memo example site:docsend.com” or look at Sequoia-style venture memos). There are also sample case studies on sites like Macabacus and some MBA casebooks.

4. Referencing:
If you're using public data (e.g., market reports, news), cite the source briefly (e.g., “Statista, 2023”). If it's your own assumptions, state that. Avoid copying text from analyst reports — always paraphrase.

Hi there,

For an investment memorandum, the key is clarity and structure. Typically you’d include an executive summary, company overview, market and industry analysis, financial analysis, valuation, risks, and your recommendation. Focus on presenting your reasoning logically and backing it with data where possible.

When referencing work, cite sources clearly. Like filings, reports, or news to keep your work transparent.

Best, 

Rita

An investment memorandum is a structured document that outlines the rationale, risks, and potential returns of an investment opportunity. It typically includes:

• Executive summary
• Market analysis
• Business model and financial parameters of the deal
• Competitive landscape
• Management team
• Investment thesis and use of funds

Tips for Proper Citation of Sources

• Always include author(s), title, year, publisher, and URL if online.
• Use in-text citations to support specific claims.
• Include a reference list or bibliography at the end.
• Be consistent with the style throughout the document.

Let me know if you'd like help drafting one or reviewing a sample.

Hi,

For an investment memo, focus on telling a clear story rather than following a strict template. A short summary, a view on the business and market, a few points for your investment thesis and the key risks are usually enough. You can keep the financials high level and explain only the assumptions that really drive your view.

Good examples are hard to find because most real memos are confidential, but academic case studies can give you a sense of structure. When you use outside data, just mention the source so the reader understands where your numbers come from.

Good Luck!