
Mesirow Acquires Asset-Backed Lender to Expand Alts Capabilities
Mesirow, a Chicago-based financial services firm, has acquired Bastion Management, a Stamford, CT-based asset-backed specialty finance lender, in a move that strengthens its alternative investment offerings.
Financial terms of the deal, which closed on December 31, 2024, were not disclosed.
Bastion Management, established in 2013, offers financial solutions to the lower middle market across multiple sectors. The firm has executed over 50 transactions with commitments above $2 billion since its establishment, catering to endowments, institutional investors, and family offices.
“We are pleased to welcome Bastion to Mesirow as we extend our alternatives offering in the asset-backed lending space,” said Mesirow CEO Natalie Brown. She underscored the cultural alignment between the two companies and expressed confidence in Bastion’s prospective impact on Mesirow’s growth trajectory.
Bastion CEO Jay Braden emphasized the advantages of collaborating with an independent, employee-owned company that holds similar principles. “Mesirow’s robust distribution platform will enable us to accelerate our growth while continuing to deliver exceptional service to our clients,” Braden said.
Mesirow, founded in 1937, manages $302.6 billion in total assets under supervision as of September 30, 2024. The firm maintains its commitment to other alternative investment capabilities, including currency management, private equity, and institutional real estate direct investments, alongside its wealth management, fiduciary services and capital markets operations.
DLA Piper served as legal advisors to Mesirow in the transaction, while Berkshire Global Advisors acted as financial advisor to Bastion and Latham & Watkins provided legal counsel.
In September, Mesirow Wealth Management, the wealth division of Mesirow, announced the acquisition of Price Wealth Management, a Stuart, FL-based registered investment advisor for high-net-worth individuals and families.
Pictured: Natalie Brown, CEO, Mesirow
