Young America Capital Company Profile
Background
Overview
Founded in 2009, Young America Capital (YAC) is an independent, FINRA/SEC-licensed investment banking and advisory firm headquartered in Mamaroneck, New York. The firm specializes in providing capital raising, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory, and alternative investment fund marketing services to early-stage and middle-market companies.
Mission and Vision
YAC is committed to delivering personalized investment banking services that cater to the unique needs of its clients. By leveraging the extensive experience of its team, the firm aims to offer insightful and strategic financial solutions that drive client success.
Industry Significance
Recognized as a top 25 investment bank for 2023 by Axial, YAC has demonstrated its capability in supporting clients through complex financial transactions, even in challenging market conditions. In 2023, the firm closed 21 transactions across various sectors, averaging nearly two deals per month.
Key Strategic Focus
Core Objectives
YAC focuses on providing tailored financial advisory services, including:
- Capital Raising: Assisting clients in securing debt and equity financing to support growth, recapitalization, refinancing, or restructuring initiatives.
- M&A Advisory: Offering buy-side and sell-side advisory services to facilitate strategic acquisitions, divestitures, and mergers.
- Fund Marketing: Supporting alternative investment fund managers in obtaining institutional capital commitments.
Areas of Specialization
The firm has developed expertise across multiple industry sectors, including:
- Industrials, Chemicals, and Manufacturing
- Energy and Clean-Tech
- Financial Services and Fin-Tech
- Telecom, Media, and Technology
- Life Sciences and Healthcare
- Consumer and Retail
- Maritime and Infrastructure
- Real Estate
- Latin America Focus
This diversified focus enables YAC to offer comprehensive services tailored to the specific needs of clients within these industries.
Financials and Funding
Revenue
Estimates of YAC's annual revenue vary:
- Approximately $14.6 million, with a team of 63 employees.
- Around $30.9 million, employing 60 individuals.
- Between $100 million and $250 million, with a staff of 73.
Funding History
Specific details regarding YAC's funding history are not publicly disclosed. The firm operates as an independent entity, focusing on providing financial services to its clients.
Leadership Team
Key Executives
- Peter Formanek, CPA: Founder and Managing Partner
- Background: Over 30 years of experience advising fund managers, family offices, and companies.
- Contributions: Founded YAC in 2009, building upon his prior success with Family Office Advisor, a CPA and wealth advisory business established in 2000.
- Steven Zelac: Senior Managing Director and Head of Investment Banking for Industrials, Chemicals, and Manufacturing
- Background: Over 30 years of experience in corporate development and strategic finance, with leadership roles at W.R. Grace & Co., Alcoa, DuPont, and BrightView.
- Contributions: Joined YAC in 2021 to lead the Industrials, Chemicals, and Manufacturing sector, bringing extensive transactional experience.
- Raju Panjwani: Senior Managing Director and Head of Investment Banking for FinTech/Blockchain
- Background: Over 35 years of experience, including 18 years at Morgan Stanley as Managing Director.
- Contributions: Appointed in 2018 to expand YAC's expertise in FinTech and Blockchain sectors.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The investment banking industry is highly competitive, with numerous firms offering similar services. YAC's recognition as a top 25 investment bank by Axial underscores its strong market position and ability to deliver positive outcomes for clients.
Competitor Analysis
YAC's main competitors include:
- Structured Finance International, LLC
- Cronus Partners, LLC
- AEI
These firms operate in the investment banking sector, offering services that overlap with YAC's offerings.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
YAC has developed strategic alliances with complementary firms to broaden the scope and scale of its service offerings. These collaborations enhance the firm's ability to provide both domestic and cross-border transaction services.
Operational Insights
YAC's commitment to personalized attention and professional service distinguishes it from larger investment banking firms. The firm's team of industry veterans offers valuable insights tailored to the specific needs of each client, providing a competitive advantage in the market.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
YAC is positioned to continue its growth trajectory by expanding its industry practices and service offerings. The firm's focus on attracting top-tier talent and developing specialized industry practices, such as Healthcare & Life Sciences and Maritime & Infrastructure, aligns with its strategic roadmap to meet the evolving needs of existing and prospective clients.
