American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) Market Research Report

Background

The American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI), established in 1982, is the largest multi-disciplinary, non-partisan organization dedicated to research and education on matters related to insolvency. With a membership exceeding 10,000 professionals—including attorneys, auctioneers, bankers, judges, lenders, professors, turnaround specialists, and accountants—ABI serves as a pivotal resource in the bankruptcy field. The organization's mission is to provide high-quality conferences, comprehensive continuing education, effective legal research, and dynamic networking opportunities. ABI also plays a significant role in offering non-partisan reporting and analysis of bankruptcy regulations, laws, and trends to congressional leaders and the public.

Key Strategic Focus

ABI's strategic focus encompasses several core objectives:

Educational Programs: Hosting nearly 40 regional, national, and international programs annually, ABI provides live and online options for continuing legal education (CLE) and professional development.

Scholarly Research: Through its Endowment Fund, ABI awards grants to scholars engaged in research on insolvency topics, such as the impact of the Affordable Care Act on consumer bankruptcy filings.

Publications: ABI produces a range of publications, including the monthly ABI Journal, the semi-annual ABI Law Review, and various books and educational materials, serving as essential resources for insolvency professionals.

Legal Research and Resources: ABI's website offers a comprehensive suite of data for insolvency professionals, including articles, statistics, case law summaries, conference materials, daily bankruptcy news headlines, court decisions, legislative news, and videos.

Legislative Analysis: ABI regularly testifies before Congress, analyzes proposed bills, and conducts briefings for congressional committees and legislative staff, providing analytical assistance and commentary on bankruptcy law.

Financials and Funding

As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, ABI's financial health is robust:

Revenue: In 2023, ABI reported revenue of $10.5 million, with program services accounting for 93.2% of total revenue.

Expenses: Total expenses for 2023 were $9.7 million, with executive compensation comprising 10.1% of total expenses.

Assets and Liabilities: As of 2023, ABI's total assets stood at $21.5 million, with liabilities of $3.54 million, resulting in net assets of $17.9 million.

Technological Platform and Innovation

ABI leverages various technological platforms to enhance its services:

Online Resources: ABI's website offers a comprehensive suite of data for insolvency professionals, including articles, statistics, case law summaries, conference materials, daily bankruptcy news headlines, court decisions, legislative news, and videos.

Publications: ABI produces a range of publications, including the monthly ABI Journal, the semi-annual ABI Law Review, and various books and educational materials, serving as essential resources for insolvency professionals.

Leadership Team

ABI's leadership comprises experienced professionals dedicated to advancing the organization's mission:

Amy Alcoke Quackenboss: Serving as Executive Director since 2019, Ms. Quackenboss previously held the role of Deputy Executive Director and General Counsel from 2010 to 2019. Before joining ABI, she practiced law at Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP, focusing on bankruptcy litigation and restructuring.

Karim Guirguis: As Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Guirguis oversees ABI's operational functions, ensuring the organization's strategic objectives are met efficiently.

Barbara Bereskin: In her role as Director of Marketing, Ms. Bereskin leads ABI's marketing initiatives, enhancing the organization's visibility and engagement within the insolvency community.

Leadership Changes

In 2019, Amy Alcoke Quackenboss succeeded Sam Gerdano as Executive Director. Mr. Gerdano had served in this capacity since 1991, significantly contributing to ABI's growth and influence in the bankruptcy field.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The insolvency education and research sector is characterized by a limited number of organizations offering specialized resources and support to professionals. ABI's comprehensive offerings position it as a leader in this niche market.

Competitor Analysis

While ABI holds a prominent position, other organizations contribute to the field:

National Association of Bankruptcy Trustees (NABT): Focuses on supporting bankruptcy trustees through education and networking opportunities.

Turnaround Management Association (TMA): Provides resources and networking for professionals involved in corporate renewal and turnaround management.

Upsolve: A nonprofit organization offering a free web application that enables low-income Americans to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy independently.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

ABI collaborates with various organizations to enhance its offerings:

Bloomberg Law: Provides legal technology and resources, supporting ABI's educational programs.

Polsinelli: A law firm offering expertise in bankruptcy and restructuring, contributing to ABI's initiatives.

AlixPartners: A global consulting firm specializing in performance improvement and restructuring, partnering with ABI on various projects.

Stretto: Delivers case-management services and technology tools, supporting ABI's operational capabilities.

Operational Insights

ABI's strategic considerations include:

Comprehensive Offerings: ABI's diverse range of educational programs, publications, and research initiatives provide a holistic resource for insolvency professionals.