Due diligence is an extensive qualitative and quantitative analysis conducted to evaluate the viability and risk factors of a potential investment or business decision. This process can involve a range of activities, such as financial statement analysis, market research, legal reviews, and management evaluations. For example, in asset management, due diligence may include scrutinizing a fund’s performance history, understanding its investment strategy, and assessing the skills of its management team. In mergers and acquisitions, it could entail an exhaustive review of all business operations, legal obligations, and financial records of the target company. The goal is to identify any hidden liabilities or potential problems that could affect the investment’s profitability or the transaction’s success. Due diligence is a crucial step in any financial decision-making process, designed to protect both the investor and the investment.