If you're not growing you're declining. In the current marketplace there is no such thing as business stability. Buyers look for a documented stream of revenue over a period of time. It gives them confidence that they will experience the same growth in the future. If your business is growing extremely quickly, you may be able to ask a premium for your firm.
Different buyers value different things.
To maximize the value of your business, know whom you want to sell it to. Then you can build your business to have most value for your ideal buyer. If you plan to sell your business to an institutional buyer, don't attract retirees to work with your firm. Customizing your business structure and client base to perfectly fit the needs of your ideal buyer will make their decisions simple and maximize your payoffs. Your investment management clients, potential buyers value different things.