Deals top £1bn at investment bank Zeus Capital

Independent investment bank Zeus Capital racked up a hefty dealmaking record in 2016 after advising on 18 transactions worth £1.1bn.

The Manchester-based firm said it continued to perform well on the public markets over the last 12 months, generating 28% of all funds raised on AIM IPOs during the period.

In total, Zeus Capital advised on six IPOs and a £950m reverse takeover, raising more than £850m.

In the North West Zeus Capital led on a number of high profile deals, including the £255m IPO of family-run construction firm Watkin Jones plc. The transaction included a £131m fundraise.

The company also served as a nominated adviser (NOMAD) and sole broker to tissue manufacturer Accrol Papers plc for its £93m listing – a deal that saw a partial exit for private equity firm NorthEdge Capital.

In 2016, Zeus Capital expanded on its private equity transactions, teaming up with NorthEdge in July to advise on its multi-million pound development capital investment into casual dining businesses Victor’s and Neighbourhood.

Tremayne Ducker, Zeus Capital’s head of corporate finance, said: “Hitting the £1.1bn mark is a great accomplishment, especially given the uncertain economic backdrop following Brexit and the US election.

“We have continued to lead the market when it comes to AIM IPOs, with more than a quarter of all funds raised coming from our offices.”

He added: “We continue to invest in our teams across the board, with the addition of our natural resources team further building on the wide range of sector expertise at the firm.

“This enables us to offer the highest quality advice to clients, as we look to support the most vibrant and ambitious management teams.”

In addition to its Manchester base, Zeus Capital has offices in London and Birmingham.

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