Alantra, a Spanish financial services company, is strengthening its investment banking services in the region by establishing a new office within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The firm has been granted approval by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) to provide financial services both within and from the DIFC. Boasting a global presence with 650 professionals across 25 offices spanning 22 countries, Alantra is now authorized to deliver financial services from the DIFC, a move strategically aligned with the burgeoning trade and investment opportunities in emerging markets.
The expansion not only offers direct access to these opportunities but also provides access to a pool of top-tier global talent, enabling the firm to enhance its regional services with a team of sector experts.
Taking on the role of Senior Executive Officer (SEO) for Alantra DIFC is Saad Ashraf, who will spearhead the firm’s operational activities and growth strategies in the region. It’s worth noting that Alantra initially ventured into the Middle East through its Maritime and Shipping team in Athens, focusing on the maritime and offshore sector. Having successfully overseen around 20 deals totaling over USD 1 billion in the region, this team will now operate from the DIFC as part of the expanded presence.
Regarding its expansion into Dubai, Ashraf said: “DIFC was a natural choice for Alantra when we decided to set up our investment banking activities in the Middle East, given Dubai’s strategic location, top-notch infrastructure, and availability of specialised talent.”
“We have also domiciled and relocated a significant part of our global Marine & Shipping Investment banking sector team to DIFC in light of the region’s strong relevance for this growing sector. We believe that our specialisation in key sectors such as FIG, Consumer, Real Estate, Healthcare & Technology will add meaningful value to our clients’ strategic objectives,” he added.
Commending the decision, DIFC Authority Chief Business Development Officer Salmaan Jaffery said:: “We welcome Alantra to Dubai and the region. Their decision to establish here underlines DIFC’s position as an attractive hub for international investment banks.”
“Capitalising on our time zone advantage, supportive regulatory environment, and unparalleled access to top-tier talent, financial institutions like Alantra gain a significant competitive advantage in serving their clients and tapping into growth opportunities across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region,” he added.
Over the years, Alantra’s vision and dedication have enabled it to expand its reach beyond Spanish borders, establishing a prominent presence in key international financial hubs.
Alantra’s success can be attributed to its holistic approach to financial services. The company offers a wide array of specialized services, catering to the diverse needs of its clients. These services encompass investment banking, asset management, credit portfolio advisory, and wealth management, among others. By providing an integrated suite of offerings, Alantra simplifies the complex financial landscape for its clients, enabling them to make informed decisions.
With offices in over 20 countries, the company operates on a global scale while maintaining a deep understanding of local markets. This approach allows Alantra to tailor its solutions to the specific needs and regulations of different regions, ensuring that clients receive personalized, effective advice.
Alantra’s entrance into Dubai marks not just a strategic move but a testament to the interconnectedness of global economies. As the firm’s investment banking services set sail against the backdrop of Dubai’s soaring skyline, it embarks on a journey to bridge cultures, economies, and aspirations.