In Germany, business brokers typically must hold a trade license (Gewerbeerlaubnis) under the Trade Regulation Act, especially when arranging sales or acquisitions for a fee. A business advisor, by contrast, provides guidance and consulting without directly handling transactions and usually does not require a specific license.

In Germany, business brokers (Unternehmensmakler) must generally hold a valid trade license (Gewerbeerlaubnis) under §34c GewO if they handle the sale or purchase of businesses for a fee. By contrast, a Business Advisor (Unternehmensberater) usually doesn’t need a special license and provides guidance, valuation, or strategy support without directly brokering the deal. Emotionally, knowing this distinction feels empowering it helps you choose a qualified professional who’s legally accountable versus someone offering advice, so you can protect your investment and reduce the risk of surprises.