go/head south

[Chucha]

Can you help me understand this phrase? The context is as follows:

"Before the deal heads south, ask the buyer what's the next step in its decision making process"

Thanks in advance

[Translucid Mushroom]

To go (or head) south, when used metaphorically, is 'to decline; deteriorate; lessen in number, quality, or worth', or--in some circumstances--'to cease functioning altogether'.

[Talgat]

there is another meaning of heading shouth, to give head; but that of course doesn't fit ur context. mashroom gave u the right answer.