Los Angeles has emerged as a leading hub for middle market investment banks over the past decade. Key factors driving growth include the strong technology, healthcare, media/entertainment and consumer sectors, as well as increasing levels of private equity and venture capital deployed in the region. This article provides an overview of the top middle market investment banks in Los Angeles as of 2020, including major players like Harris Williams, Houlihan Lokey and Lincoln International.
Harris Williams establishes leading position through tech sector expertise
Harris Williams has standout capabilities advising middle market technology companies, which has fueled its rise to become one of the top investment banks in Los Angeles. The firm has deeply experienced bankers focused on software, IT services, fintech and digital media. It leverages this domain expertise to provide informed, creative advice on M&A, capital raising and other strategic objectives.
Houlihan Lokey dominates with media, consumer and healthcare depth
Houlihan Lokey has an exceptionally strong presence in Los Angeles, dominating the middle market investment banking landscape. The firm has unequalled capabilities serving the media/entertainment, consumer and healthcare sectors. It has advised on more middle market transactions than any other bank in these areas over the past decade.
Lincoln International grows quickly via leveraged finance
While newer to Los Angeles than some competitors, Lincoln International has expanded rapidly by leveraging its strengths in leveraged finance and private equity coverage. The firm has provided debt financing and private capital to fund dozens of acquisitions, minority investments and leveraged buyouts annually of late.
Boutiques thrive by specializing
Specialized boutique investment banks also thrive in serving the Los Angeles middle market. Examples include tech-focused Progress Partners, consumer-focused CoveView Capital and healthcare-focused Torreya Partners. These firms rely on deep sector expertise to identify attractive M&A opportunities and provide informed advice.
Increasing deal volumes underpin future growth
The positive underlying fundamentals supporting middle market investment banking in Los Angeles remain firmly in place. Expanding deal volumes, increasing pools of private capital and the market’s dynamic sector composition provide a strong foundation for future growth.
Los Angeles has developed into a major hub for middle market investment banking activity and dealmaking over the past 10 years. Harris Williams, Houlihan Lokey and Lincoln International stand out as market leaders, with specialized boutiques also playing important roles. The level of transactions, private funding and strategic activity taking place ensure Los Angeles will continue its ascent among the preeminent U.S. markets for middle market banking.