Corporate intelligence
The systematic collection and analysis of legally available information about companies, markets and market participants for business decision-making: transactions, partnerships, entry into a new market.
Practical significance
It differs from due diligence in its focus: DD examines a specific target ahead of a decision, whereas corporate intelligence builds a picture of the environment - who the players are, how connections are structured, and where the real centres of influence lie.
Where it is used
- entry into a new market
- assessment of the competitive environment
- M&A preparation
- industry risk analysis
What the term does not mean
Not industrial espionage. Work is carried out using open and lawful sources, without access to trade secrets or companies' internal systems.
How it differs from «Business Intelligence»
Business intelligence more often refers to analysis of a company's own data. Corporate intelligence examines the external environment and other market participants. More about this term
Illustrative example
Before entering a new country, it is established that three formally independent distributors are controlled by a single group - the negotiating position is built differently as a result.
Related terms, services and guides
Definition verified 3 August 2026
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