Houlihan Lokey Expands EMEA Financial Sponsors Coverage with Senior Hire
Houlihan Lokey Inc. (NYSE: HLI) announced the appointment of Martin Rezaie as Managing Director in its Financial Sponsors Group, based in Frankfurt, on 8 September 2025. Rezaie will lead the firm’s financial‑sponsor coverage in the DACH region and collaborate closely with Christian Keller, Managing Director and Head of European Private Equity Coverage, as well as other senior colleagues across the global Financial Sponsors Group.
Rezaie joins from GP Bullhound, where he served as Partner and head of the firm’s DACH business. Prior to that, he spent a decade with GCA Altium as a member of its German M&A team, which was acquired by Houlihan Lokey in 2021. His career began at DC Advisory in 2011, and he has advised on more than 50 middle‑market transactions across multiple sectors.
Kevin Salmini, Managing Director and Global Head of the Financial Sponsors Group, welcomed Rezaie, noting that his deep knowledge of the DACH market and strong relationships with financial sponsors will be valuable as the firm continues to expand sponsor coverage and deliver innovative solutions to clients.
Context and Implications
- Strategic Expansion – The hire supports Houlihan Lokey’s broader strategy to deepen its presence in Europe, particularly in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, where financial sponsors are actively seeking advisory services for M&A and restructuring deals.
- Client Impact – Existing and prospective clients in the DACH region can expect enhanced access to expertise on mid‑market transactions and financial sponsor relationships.
- Industry Position – By adding a seasoned professional with a track record in both M&A execution and sponsor relations, Houlihan Lokey strengthens its competitive position in the capital markets sector.
Company Snapshot
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Sector | Financials |
| Industry | Capital Markets |
| Primary Exchange | New York Stock Exchange |
| Currency | USD |
| Close Price (4 Sept 2025) | $197.09 |
| 52‑Week High | $201.63 |
| 52‑Week Low | $137.99 |
| Market Capitalisation | $14.08 billion |
| Price‑Earnings Ratio | 33.364 |
| Website | www.hl.com |
| Founded | 2015 (public listing) |
The recent appointment aligns with Houlihan Lokey’s ongoing efforts to broaden its service offerings, particularly in mergers and acquisitions, financial restructuring, capital markets, and strategic consulting for clients worldwide.