London firm goes international with global financial services merger

Financial markets consultancy Catalyst has announced it is merging with global financial services specialist Sionic Advisors.

Following the company’s acquisition of wealth management specialist Knadel last year supported by private equity firm Livingbridge, London-based Catalyst has merged with Sionic to boost its expansion internationally.

Catalyst CEO Andrew Middleton commented: “This is a transformational merger that will create a world-leading specialist firm. Sionic has highly regarded expertise in our core banking market, enabling us to scale our delivery of complex assignments for clients worldwide, and a lead position in the US and Canada.”

Following the news that financial services consulting global spend increased by $21bn between 2008 and 2018, the newly merged firm plans to accelerate its growth of ‘specialism at scale’ services.

Speaking about the merger, Sionic co-founder and group CEO, Craig Sher, said: “This is a perfect match. Like Catalyst, we deliver measurable value and best in class change services in control and governance, regulatory change, operations, risk, finance and technology.

“We’re looking forward to working together to expand our services and reach to create an even bigger and better firm for our clients, staff and investors alike.”

The newly merged company will have a combined team of over 300 staff in offices across Europe, North America and Asia, with Livingbridge assisting with the businesses’ integration.

Livingbridge partner, Pete Clarke, added: “Both firms are experts in creating value for clients in a highly demanding sector. We are delighted to support the combined international ambitions of Catalyst and Sionic, including from our US operations located near the Sionic New York HQ.

“This is just the beginning for the group, which will continue to grow rapidly and target further strategic acquisitions.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →