Unicorn Strategic Partners

Background

Founded in 2017, Unicorn Strategic Partners (UnicornSP) is a boutique third-party fund distributor specializing in the Latin American (LATAM) and U.S. offshore markets. The firm represents six investment managers, offering a diverse range of investment solutions while ensuring no overlap between strategies across its market coverage. UnicornSP's mission is to provide top-tier distribution services, fostering long-term partnerships with managers who share a meritocratic and performance-driven culture. The firm's team comprises professionals with an average of over 20 years of experience in asset management distribution, underscoring its industry significance.

Key Strategic Focus

UnicornSP's strategic focus centers on delivering comprehensive sales and marketing support to a select group of investment managers, ensuring alignment with the firm's high standards and cultural values. The firm emphasizes:

Sales & Marketing: Engaging with key client personnel through various initiatives, including "Lunch and Learns," walkthroughs, and one-on-one meetings. Providing day-to-day client support and customized monthly Salesforce reporting. Organizing manager summits and events to strengthen relationships.

Market Analysis: Conducting flow projections, analyzing asset allocation trends, and reviewing client landscapes to inform strategic decisions.

Legal & Compliance: Coordinating agreements, managing tax reporting requirements, and ensuring adherence to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) responsibilities. Providing access to local legal counsel and broker-dealer services.

Product Analysis: Segmenting competitors, understanding distributor consultant requirements, and performing peer group analyses to position offerings effectively.

Operations & Distribution Setup: Guiding share class launches, conducting fund due diligence, facilitating platform onboarding, and reviewing pricing structures.

By maintaining a limited number of manager representations, UnicornSP ensures dedicated attention and avoids conflicts of interest, highlighting best-in-class capabilities across various regions.

Financials and Funding

As a privately held firm, specific financial details and funding history of UnicornSP are not publicly disclosed. The firm's revenue is estimated to be between $1 million and $10 million, with a team of approximately 12 employees.

Pipeline Development

UnicornSP's pipeline development focuses on expanding its representation of investment managers and enhancing its suite of services. The firm continuously seeks to identify and partner with asset managers that align with its strategic objectives and cultural values, ensuring a robust and diversified offering for its clients.

Technological Platform and Innovation

While specific proprietary technologies or AI-driven capabilities are not detailed, UnicornSP leverages the resources and infrastructure of the NFQ Group to provide consulting services to the managers it represents. This collaboration enables the firm to offer a distribution platform supported by a first-class asset management team with a consolidated track record in various regions.

Leadership Team

UnicornSP's leadership comprises seasoned professionals with extensive experience in asset management distribution:

David Ayastuy, Managing Partner and Founder, brings over 20 years of experience in the industry.

Florencia Bunge, Partner and Head of Sales LATAM, has a background in sales and distribution within the Latin American wholesale market.

Andrés Casais, Deputy CEO, oversees business development efforts and maintains key relationships in the U.S. offshore market.

Nicole Latorre, Hybrid Sales Manager, has over 16 years of industry experience, including roles at Robeco and Merrill Lynch.

Lucas Ryan, Vice President of U.S. Offshore Sales, focuses on the independent channel in Miami, covering the LATAM retail segment.

Antonio Silva, Head of Digital Marketing, has over 10 years of experience in digital marketing, having worked with companies such as smart®, Daimler, and Mercedes-Benz.

Sergio González, Head of Operations, has a mixed technical-economic profile with experience in coordinating technical and development sections with other operational areas.

Leadership Changes

As of the latest available information, there have been no recent significant changes or appointments within UnicornSP's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The asset management distribution industry in the LATAM and U.S. offshore markets is characterized by a growing demand for diverse investment solutions and a need for specialized distribution services. Firms operating in this space must navigate complex regulatory environments and establish strong relationships with both asset managers and investors.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the asset management distribution sector include:

iCapital Network: A global fintech company providing technology and service solutions for alternative investments.

Allfunds Bank: A leading B2B WealthTech platform offering access to a wide range of investment funds.

Capital Strategies Partners: An independent firm specializing in the distribution of investment funds in Europe and Latin America.

These competitors focus on providing comprehensive distribution services, leveraging technology platforms, and maintaining extensive networks to serve asset managers and investors effectively.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

In October 2022, UnicornSP partnered with iCapital to provide LATAM wealth managers with access to institutional-quality alternative investment opportunities. This collaboration aims to meet the significant demand for private market and hedge fund investments in the region, offering comprehensive educational support and streamlined operational infrastructure.

Operational Insights

UnicornSP's strategic considerations include:

Market Position: Establishing itself as a leading fund distribution specialist in the LATAM and U.S. offshore markets by offering best-in-class strategies and comprehensive investment solutions.

Competitive Advantages: Maintaining a limited number of manager representations to ensure dedicated attention and avoid conflicts of interest. Leveraging a team of professionals with extensive experience and a strong track record in asset management distribution.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

UnicornSP's strategic roadmap includes:

Expansion of Manager Representations: Identifying and partnering with additional asset managers that align with the firm's strategic objectives and cultural values.

Enhancement of Service Offerings: Continuously improving and expanding the suite of services provided to clients and partners, including sales and marketing support, market analysis, legal and compliance assistance, product analysis, and operations and distribution setup.

Strengthening Strategic Partnerships: Building on existing collaborations, such as the partnership with iCapital, to enhance market position and innovation capacity.