CEO Weekly Outlook

U.S. companies are having a hard time maintaining “exploration” — a crucial part of success — as they grow, reports the Harvard Business Review. Generating cash is important, but so is “finding winning products and models.” In the past 10 years, “firms’ degree of exploration has decreased by 7% points,” representing “an enormous loss in future option value.”

Business Insights

• The gig economy is coming to the traditional workforce
• Improving customer satisfaction with analytics
• Design a workplace that excites you
• Looking for a CFO? Look to your board.
• Revenue recognition accounting changes could have long-ranging impact

Transaction Toolbox

• How Expedia got good at M&A
• 5 entrepreneurs on exiting a successful business
• Make sure your business is ready for sale
• Selling a business requires planning
• Do you need a family office?
• Focus on strategy before culture when it comes to M&A
• Successful deals start early

Middle Market Move of the Week

ThinkThin is now thinking of sale. TSG Consumer Partners (an Axial member) announced that global nutrition company Glanbia plc will acquire ThinkThin, which sells protein-rich foods like bars and hot cereal.