Fintech PR
J.S. Held Marks a Year of Global Leadership, Innovation, & Expert Collaboration in 2023
JERICHO, N.Y., March 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Global consulting firm J.S. Held, proudly celebrating 50 transformative years, capped off 2023 with record revenue and strategic achievements that underscore the firm’s enduring commitment to innovation, growth, and team excellence.
In a testament to extraordinary team vision, hard work, and dedication, J.S. Held navigated both the smooth and turbulent waters of 2023 with remarkable client success. “I am incredibly proud of our team’s hard work and collaboration, which have not only propelled us to new heights of success but continually made J.S. Held a truly great place to work,” stated Jonathon Held, President & Chief Executive Officer of J.S. Held.
Navigating Success Through Challenge and Growth
J.S. Held’s collaborative team spirit and collective effort led to unprecedented achievements, enhancing its suite of services, and expanding its global client base. J.S. Held experts now serve as trusted advisors to organizations across six continents. More than 1,500 experts across the firm work with:
- 81% of the Global 200 Law Firms
- 70% of the Forbes Top 20 Insurance Companies (85% of the NAIC Top 50 Property & Casualty Insurers)
- 65% of the FORTUNE 100 Companies
2023 Featured Engagements
Working for clients in 80+ countries, J.S. Held experts supported more than 60,000 client engagements in 2023, including:
- J.S. Held’s experts set the stage and pioneered the use of virtual reality headsets in Southern California Courts.
- Representing a publicly traded renewable energy company at arbitration through their counsel, our expert testified in deposition and at arbitration. Leveraging the expertise of our Renewable Energy, Forensic Accounting, and Equipment Consulting, our Economic Damages & Valuation team assisted counsel in cutting the initial claim by tens of millions and denying the other party the right to claim legal fees.
- Served as an expert witness for the Australian tax authority in the first case to consider Diverted Profits Tax in that country.
- Advising multi-national extractive companies on their exposure to political and ‘above ground’ risk in a range of markets in Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Our work has involved multi-phase assessments of political/economic risk, regulation and government interference, security and on-the-ground operational challenges – such as artisanal mining.
- Providing engineering, cost consulting, and remediation expertise to the insurance market, our Forensic Architecture & Engineering experts, leveraging experts in Building Consulting and Equipment Consulting, were engaged in a USD 400M+ fire loss.
- Serviced the receivership and co-authored the financial condition report filed in court outlining a purported multi-level “investment club,” through our Digital Investigations & Discovery, Global Investigations, and Corporate Finance teams.
- Provided owner’s representation services through our Construction Advisory team to oversee a USD 100M redevelopment project, managing 14 concurrent projects to remediate a former manufacturing site, overseeing the adaptive reuse of the 125-year-old facility, the project recognized as NAIOP Developer of the Year, NAIOP Mixed-Use Development of the Year, and ICRI Award of Excellence in Masonry Repair.
- Our Healthcare Consulting experts are leading an operational improvement process and guiding the creation of a new model of care for a target patient population for one of the largest addiction recovery and behavioral health companies. Our experts’ work in phase 1 of the model of care efforts resulted in the organization securing a USD 10M philanthropic gift to fund the build of the new model of care.
Leadership and Innovation at the Forefront
In 2023, J.S. Held welcomed new leadership to the firm, including Chief Financial Officer Stephen Lieberman, Chief Information Officer Dave Melchers, and Global Investigations Practice Lead Greg Esslinger, whose diverse expertise has contributed to our success and will undoubtedly continue to do so moving forward. Moreover, the launch of J.S. Held Academy and the graduation of the first risers cohort from J.S. Held’s LEDR™ program highlight our investment in continuous learning and building a succession pipeline through leadership capability development.
Growth Through Strategic Partnerships
Our Corporate Development team continues to support the growth and development of J.S. Held, amplifying our human capital resources in important geographies throughout North America and Europe and bolstering our laboratory testing capabilities. In 2023, we further strengthened our expertise in Accident Reconstruction, Corporate Finance, Construction Advisory, Economic Damages & Valuation, Equipment Consulting, Environmental Health & Safety, Global Investigations, and Intellectual Property via strategic transactions.
Embracing the Future with Confidence
As J.S. Held looks toward the future, we remain committed to delivering industry-leading support and innovative solutions. “As we celebrate our 50th anniversary in 2024, we do so with a firm foundation and a clear vision for continued success, thanks to the dedication of our exceptional team,” remarked CEO Jonathon Held.
J.S. Held’s journey through 2023 exemplifies its resilience, innovation, and leadership in the global consulting arena. With a half-century legacy of excellence, the firm is well-positioned for steady growth and success.
Learn more about the dedicated and entrepreneurial experts who help transform J.S. Held, explore our story, and celebrate this momentous milestone, during the 50 & Forward celebration, at jsheld.com.
About J.S. Held
J.S. Held is a global consulting firm that combines technical, scientific, financial, and strategic expertise to advise clients seeking to realize value and mitigate risk. Our professionals serve as trusted advisors to organizations facing high stakes matters demanding urgent attention, staunch integrity, proven experience, clear-cut analysis, and an understanding of both tangible and intangible assets.
The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services, products, and data that enable clients to navigate complex, contentious, and often catastrophic situations.
J.S. Held, its affiliates and subsidiaries are not certified public accounting firm(s) and do not provide audit, attest, or any other public accounting services. J.S. Held, its affiliates and subsidiaries are not law firms and do not provide legal advice. Securities offered through PM Securities, LLC, d/b/a Phoenix IB, a part of J.S. Held, member FINRA/ SIPC or Ocean Tomo Investment Group, LLC, a part of J.S. Held, member FINRA/ SIPC. All rights reserved.
Media Contact
Kristi L. Stathis, J.S. Held, +1 786 833 4864, [email protected], JSHeld.com
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Fintech PR
Ridgewood Infrastructure Announced $1.2 Billion Final Close for Fund II, Significantly Surpassing Its Target
NEW YORK, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ridgewood Infrastructure (“Ridgewood”), a leading investor in essential infrastructure in the U.S. lower middle market, today announced the final close of its second fund, Ridgewood Water & Strategic Infrastructure Fund II LP (“Fund II”), with $1.2 billion in capital commitments, significantly surpassing its $1 billion target.
Fund II attracted a diverse mix of leading institutional investors, including returning and new public and corporate pensions, insurance companies, endowment funds, and asset managers from North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
A continuation of Ridgewood’s established strategy, Fund II is focused on investments in essential infrastructure businesses and assets that provide critical services in sectors including water, energy, transportation, and utilities. Ridgewood’s operationally oriented, value creation approach emphasizes scaling, professionalizing, and enhancing the strategic positioning of its investments.
“We are grateful for the continued significant support from our existing partners and are excited to welcome several new LPs from across the globe,” said Ross Posner, Managing Partner of Ridgewood Infrastructure. “This is a meaningful milestone for our firm, and we are deeply appreciative of the trust our partners continue to place in our team and strategy.”
Michael Albrecht, Managing Partner, added: “We look forward to continuing to deliver value for our investors and the many communities in which our portfolio companies operate.”
Fund II has already made several notable investments, including the Prospect Lake Clean Water Center, the third-largest water public-private partnership in U.S. history, which will provide approximately 80% of Fort Lauderdale’s fresh water under a 30-year concession agreement.
Ridgewood has also had notable recent exits from its inaugural fund (“Fund I”). Last October, Fund I sold its controlling interest in the Vista Ridge Water Pipeline, America’s largest water public-private partnership, which supplies approximately 20% of San Antonio’s fresh water under a 30-year concession agreement. Earlier this month, Fund I also sold its controlling interest in SiEnergy, one of the fastest growing regulated utilities in America.
“Our achievements reflect the exceptional capabilities of our team and the strength of the Ridgewood platform,” said Matthew Swanson, Founding Partner of Ridgewood Infrastructure. “We look forward to building upon this strong foundation of success in the years to come.”
Eaton Partners, a Stifel company, acted as the placement agent, and Vinson & Elkins LLP served as legal counsel for the fund.
About Ridgewood Infrastructure
Ridgewood Infrastructure is a leading infrastructure investor in the U.S. lower middle market with sectors of focus including water, energy, transportation, and utilities. For more information, visit www.ridgewoodinfrastructure.com.
Contact Information: Ridgewood Infrastructure
527 Madison Avenue, 18th Floor
New York, NY 10022
Phone: (212) 867-0050
Email: [email protected]
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Fintech
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Plaid, Warner Bros., TransUnion, Monevo, FinVolution, CreditTech, Glenbrook Partners)
Op-Ed: The Dawn of a Fintech Spring
As the financial technology sector continues to navigate the complex post-pandemic landscape, recent developments suggest a revitalized period of growth and innovation. Key players are making bold moves, partnerships are forming, and underserved markets are gaining attention. In this briefing, we explore the latest headlines and what they reveal about the industry’s trajectory.
Plaid Reports Growth in Revenue and Usage Rates
Plaid, the connective tissue of the fintech ecosystem, has shown remarkable resilience and growth. The company’s CEO recently highlighted a surge in both revenue and usage rates, describing the current period as a “fintech spring.” This growth comes as consumer demand for seamless financial solutions remains high, despite macroeconomic challenges.
Plaid’s ability to maintain relevance is tied to its strategic partnerships and continuous innovation. By enabling applications like Venmo and Robinhood to thrive, Plaid underscores the importance of integration in fostering user trust and utility.
Source: Bloomberg
Warner Bros. Discovery Strengthens Board with Fintech Leadership
Warner Bros. Discovery is diversifying its board by bringing in SoFi CEO Anthony Noto and outgoing IAC Chief Executive Joseph Levin. This move signals the increasing influence of fintech expertise beyond traditional financial sectors. With Noto’s leadership in digital banking and Levin’s extensive background in technology-driven enterprises, Warner Bros. Discovery is positioning itself for a future that seamlessly blends media and financial technology.
This cross-industry synergy could lead to innovative offerings, bridging gaps between entertainment platforms and fintech applications, such as micro-investing and personalized financial recommendations for content consumers.
Source: Reuters
TransUnion to Acquire Monevo
Credit reporting agency TransUnion has announced its plans to acquire Monevo, a leading credit prequalification and distribution platform. This acquisition aims to enhance TransUnion’s capabilities in the credit technology space, allowing it to offer more personalized and accessible financial solutions to consumers.
By integrating Monevo’s platform, TransUnion is expected to provide lenders with advanced tools to better assess creditworthiness while empowering consumers with prequalified loan offers. This development is particularly timely as consumers increasingly seek transparency and efficiency in credit processes.
Source: TransUnion Press Release
FinVolution Highlights CreditTech Opportunities in Southeast Asia
Ming Gu, Senior Vice President of FinVolution, emphasized the transformative potential of CreditTech in Southeast Asia during his address at the Asian Financial Forum. With a significant portion of the region’s population still underserved by traditional financial institutions, CreditTech presents a unique opportunity to bridge the gap.
Gu pointed out that leveraging AI and data analytics can help tailor credit solutions for diverse needs, ultimately fostering financial inclusion and economic growth in these emerging markets. FinVolution’s insights reaffirm the critical role of fintech in empowering underserved communities.
Source: PR Newswire
Glenbrook Partners Launches On-Demand Learning Program
Payments consultancy Glenbrook Partners has introduced an on-demand learning platform designed to educate professionals in the payments industry. This initiative is expected to address the growing need for skilled talent as digital payment ecosystems expand globally.
The program offers modular content covering foundational and advanced topics, catering to professionals at various stages of their careers. By equipping individuals with in-depth knowledge, Glenbrook is contributing to the industry’s sustainability and growth.
Source: PR Newswire
Analysis and Takeaways
These stories collectively highlight a few key trends shaping the fintech landscape:
- Resilient Growth: Plaid’s trajectory reaffirms that consumer-centric innovations drive sector resilience even during economic uncertainties.
- Cross-Industry Integration: Warner Bros. Discovery’s board appointments underline fintech’s permeation into traditionally non-financial domains.
- Strategic Acquisitions: TransUnion’s acquisition of Monevo showcases how established players are leveraging fintech to enhance service offerings.
- Global Inclusivity: Efforts by FinVolution and others highlight the role of fintech in addressing global financial disparities.
- Education and Skill Development: Initiatives like Glenbrook’s program reflect a proactive approach to fostering a knowledgeable workforce.
The post Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Plaid, Warner Bros., TransUnion, Monevo, FinVolution, CreditTech, Glenbrook Partners) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
NEW YORK, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — J.F. Lehman & Company (“JFLCO”), a leading middle-market private investment firm focused exclusively on the aerospace, defense, maritime, government and environmental sectors, is pleased to announce several promotions and team additions.
Promotions include Karina Perelmuter to Managing Director, Megan E. Kanefsky to Director, Bridget A. Harding to Vice President and Bailee D. Glass to Associate. “Our latest promotions highlight the exceptional contributions by these individuals as well as our established track record cultivating career progression,” said Louis N. Mintz, Partner. “Their dedication and impact across our own organization and our portfolio companies illustrates our commitment to excellence and fostering sustained success.”
The firm also recently welcomed several new investment professionals including Sandra Wong, Jack R. Chandler, Yosef W. Medhin, Jack R. Smith and Emily O. Strambi. JFLCO’s functional capabilities were augmented with the addition of Isabel R. Grabel and Jessica S. Godt in Investor Relations, Miguel Zhindon in Technology and Grace Xu in Finance & Accounting.
“We continue to attract outstanding new talent following the successful closing of our latest buyout fund,” said Glenn M. Shor, Partner. “These new team members further enhance the firm’s capacity and capabilities.”
Recent Promotions
Karina Perelmuter, Managing Director, Marketing & Investor Relations. Prior to joining the firm in 2019, Ms. Perelmuter served as a Vice President in Lazard’s Private Capital Advisory practice, a member of the Investor Relations team at Tiger Global and a Fund Accountant at Mount Kellett. She began her career in Assurance at Ernst & Young. Ms. Perelmuter graduated magna cum laude from American University, where she earned a B.S. in finance and accounting.
Megan E. Kanefsky, Director, Human Capital. Prior to joining the firm in 2021, Ms. Kanefsky spent 15 years in the Human Resources Group at Blackstone, where she focused on recruiting, benefits administration, performance evaluation and organizational development. Ms. Kanefsky earned a B.A. in psychology from the University of Maryland and an M.A. in industrial and organizational psychology from Baruch College.
Bridget A. Harding, Vice President. Prior to joining the firm in 2020, Ms. Harding began her career as an Investment Banking Analyst in Goldman Sachs’ Global Industrials Group. Ms. Harding graduated summa cum laude from Lehigh University, where she earned a B.S. in accounting and finance.
Bailee D. Glass, Associate. Prior to joining the firm in 2022, Ms. Glass began her career as an Alternative Investments Research Analyst in BlackRock’s hedge fund solutions group. Ms. Glass graduated from the University of Chicago, where she earned a B.A. in economics.
Investment Team Additions
Sandra Wong, Vice President, Credit. Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Wong served as Vice President on the U.S. Investment Team at Strategic Value Partners, where she focused on distressed and special situations opportunities. She began her career as an Investment Banking Analyst at Credit Suisse, where she later transitioned to the Private Equity Group. Ms. Wong earned a B.A. in business economics as well as a minor in accounting from UCLA and an M.B.A from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Jack R. Chandler, Associate. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Chandler began his career as an Investment Banking Analyst at Grace Matthews. He graduated magna cum laude from the University of Notre Dame, where he earned a B.B.A. in finance and applied computational mathematics and statistics.
Yosef W. Medhin, Associate. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Medhin was an Investment Banking Analyst in Citi’s Industrials Group and began his career as an Investment Banking Analyst at Deutsche Bank. He graduated from Washington and Lee University, where he earned a B.S. in business administration.
Jack R. Smith, Associate. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Smith began his career at Morgan Stanley in the Private Equity Solutions group. He graduated summa cum laude from Drexel University, where he earned a B.S. in finance.
Emily O. Strambi, Analyst. Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Strambi began her career as an Equity Trading Analyst at the Royal Bank of Canada, where she covered the healthcare and consumer sectors. She graduated magna cum laude from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, where she earned a B.S. in economics with concentrations in finance and business analytics as well as a minor in legal studies and history.
Other Team Additions
Isabel R. Grabel, Marketing & Investor Relations. Prior to joining the firm as a Senior Associate, Ms. Grabel was a Senior Associate at Harvest Partners, where she focused on private equity investments in industrials, healthcare, business services and consumer products. She began her career as an Investment Banking Analyst at Jefferies. Ms. Grabel graduated from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, where she earned a B.B.A. with a concentration in finance and financial management services.
Jessica S. Godt, Marketing & Investor Relations. Ms. Godt joined JFLCO in 2024 to support and consult on the firm’s marketing and fundraising efforts across private equity and credit strategies. Previously, Ms. Godt served as Vice President of Investor Relations at Warwick Investment Group and began her career in Lazard’s Private Capital Advisory practice. She earned a B.S. in commerce with concentrations in finance and management and a minor in business analytics from the University of Virginia.
Miguel Zhindon, Enterprise Technology. Prior to joining the firm as a Vice President, Mr. Zhindon served as a Senior Technology Consultant at iCorps Technologies, tailoring IT strategies, training and technical support for JFLCO and other clients. Previously, Mr. Zhindon held various roles in network administration and telecommunications. He began his career in the United States Marine Corps and graduated from Pace University, where he earned an M.S. in information systems and assurance.
Grace Xu, Finance & Accounting. Prior to joining the firm as an Assistant Controller, Ms. Xu served as a Business Unit Controller at Millennium Management. Previously, Ms. Xu worked as a Manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers in the financial services group. Ms. Xu earned a B.S. in accounting from Pennsylvania State University. Ms. Xu is a Certified Public Accountant.
About J.F. Lehman & Company, Inc.
Founded in 1992, J.F. Lehman & Company focuses exclusively on investing in the aerospace, defense, maritime, government and environmental industries. The firm has offices in New York and Washington, D.C.
http://www.jflpartners.com
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