Houlihan Lokey Expands European Footprint with Two Strategic Acquisitions
Event summary
- Houlihan Lokey acquires controlling interest in Audere Partners, a French mid-cap corporate finance firm operating under Natixis Partners.
- The deal adds over 50 finance professionals to Houlihan Lokey’s French team, bringing the total to around 80.
- Houlihan Lokey also acquires Mellum Capital’s real estate capital advisory business, adding 11 professionals in Munich and London.
- Transactions expected to close in Q1 2026, with both firms integrating under Houlihan Lokey’s brand.
The big picture
Houlihan Lokey is doubling down on Europe, where it now employs approximately 550 financial professionals. The acquisitions align with a broader trend of global investment banks strengthening regional capabilities to better serve mid-cap clients and financial sponsors. The moves also reflect Houlihan Lokey’s strategy of combining deep sector expertise with alternative capital solutions.
What we're watching
- Integration Success
- How Houlihan Lokey will integrate Audere Partners and Mellum Capital teams into its existing European operations.
- Market Penetration
- Whether the expanded French presence can solidify Houlihan Lokey’s position as a top mid-cap advisor in the region.
- Real Estate Focus
- The pace at which Houlihan Lokey can leverage Mellum Capital’s expertise to grow its real estate capital advisory business.
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