Standards & Regulations

At The Oakworth Group, we believe that true excellence is built on a foundation of rigorous discipline and transparent methodology. Our clients entrust us with their most critical decisions; what follows is a detailed account of the frameworks we adhere to, ensuring that trust is always well-placed.

1. Our Modeling Standard: The FAST Framework

We do not believe in reinventing principles that define excellence. This is why every financial model we deliver is constructed in strict adherence to the FAST Standard.

The FAST Standard, developed by the Financial Modeling Institute, is the global benchmark for creating models that are not just numerically accurate, but also logically structured, transparent, and resilient. Our commitment to this standard is non-negotiable and translates into tangible benefits for your deal team:

Flexibility

Our models are designed to be easily modified. When deal variables change, the model adapts seamlessly, without requiring structural rebuilds that waste precious time.

Appropriateness

Every assumption, formula, and output is purpose-built for the specific context of your transaction, ensuring relevance and practical utility.

Structured Clarity

A consistent and logical layout allows any qualified professional—from an Associate to a Managing Director—to navigate the model with confidence and understand the flow of logic instantaneously.

Transparency

There are no "black boxes." Our models are built to be audited. Every calculation is clear, traceable, and designed to withstand the most rigorous investment committee scrutiny.

By partnering with us, you are not just receiving a spreadsheet; you are gaining a tool built on a foundation of globally recognized best practices.

2. Global Regulatory & Tax Capability

The private equity landscape is global, and so is our expertise. Our models are architecturally designed to accommodate the complex fiscal and regulatory environments of your transactions.

We possess the structural capability and understanding to accurately model the financial implications of deals across major jurisdictions, including:

The United States & Canada

Federal and state/provincial corporate taxes, SALT (State and Local Taxes), and complex financing structures.

The United Kingdom & European Union

Corporation tax, VAT implications, and the nuances of cross-border investment within the EU.

Australia & Asia-Pacific

Handling of franking credits, GST, and regional tax treaties.

The Middle East (GCC)

Modeling for VAT and the emerging corporate tax frameworks.

A Critical Point of Partnership & Responsibility:

It is our duty to state with absolute clarity: The Oakworth Group provides financial modeling services. We expertly implement the tax rates, legal structures, and regulatory assumptions that you, our client, provide in consultation with your qualified legal and tax advisors.

We build the tool; you and your counsel define the rules. This clear separation of roles is a cornerstone of our professional responsibility and ensures that the highest level of specialized expertise is applied to every component of your transaction.

3. Our Technological Discipline

Precision is a function of both mind and tool. We employ a disciplined, professional-grade technological stack to ensure integrity, security, and efficiency.

Core Analytical Engine

Microsoft Excel for Microsoft 365. We leverage the full power of the latest version, utilizing advanced functions, dynamic arrays, and data types to create living, responsive models.

Data Integrity & Automation

We employ Power Query for robust, error-resistant data ingestion and transformation. This ensures a clean, auditable, and repeatable process for integrating source data.

Security Protocol

Client confidentiality is sacrosanct. All data is transmitted and stored using encrypted, secure methods. We strictly adhere to NDAs and are prepared to comply with your firm's specific information security policies.

Presentation & Collaboration

We are adept at distilling complex model outputs into clear, authoritative summaries using Microsoft PowerPoint, providing you with the materials needed for effective internal communication and decisive committee presentations.