Due diligence

Definizione

Due diligence is the systematic investigation of a counterparty's solvency, compliance, ownership and performance record before entering or extending a relationship. In procurement it reduces continuity, fraud and sanctions risk; in M&A it informs price and warranties. The depth scales with deal value and risk.

Esempio

Before awarding a critical supply contract, the buyer reviews the supplier's financial statements, certifications and sanctions screening.

Perché rappresenta un rischio aziendale

Skipping or superficially conducting due diligence exposes the organisation to counterparty insolvency, sanctions violations, fraud and supply-chain disruption. A supplier that fails within months of contract award, or that turns out to be on a sanctions list, creates financial loss and potential regulatory liability for the buyer, both of which are far more costly than the diligence itself.

Come gestirlo

• Scale due diligence depth to contract value and strategic importance: a critical single-source supplier warrants more scrutiny than a routine purchase.
• Always run sanctions screening and check beneficial ownership for contracts above your policy threshold.
• Request financial statements and references, and verify certifications independently rather than relying solely on supplier declarations.
• Document findings and the decision rationale so the process can be evidenced if a problem arises later.
• Refresh diligence periodically for critical suppliers, not only at the start of the relationship.