Core Insights - Houlihan Lokey has announced two strategic transactions to enhance its European platform and expand its global Corporate Finance capabilities [1] Group 1: Acquisition of Audere Partners - The firm has secured a controlling interest in Audere Partners, a leading French corporate finance firm, significantly enhancing its presence in France and positioning it as a top mid-cap advisory platform [2] - The transaction will add over 50 finance professionals to Houlihan Lokey, bringing the total number of its French team to around 80 [5] - Audere Partners is known for its expertise in French mid-cap advisory, primarily serving financial sponsors, entrepreneurs, and family-owned businesses [4] Group 2: Acquisition of Mellum Capital - Houlihan Lokey has acquired the real estate capital advisory business of Mellum Capital, which operates in Munich and London, further expanding its client support across the capital structure [3] - The Mellum Capital team, including founding partners Heinrich Hauss and Markus Reule, will join Houlihan Lokey as Managing Directors in the Capital Solutions Group [6] - The Mellum Capital business has been fully integrated into Houlihan Lokey, with a total of 11 professionals joining the firm [7] Group 3: Strategic Growth and Leadership Statements - The CEO of Houlihan Lokey emphasized the firm's growth in Europe, driven by a focus on delivering exceptional outcomes for clients through a differentiated offering [4] - The President of Houlihan Lokey, Europe, highlighted the importance of these transactions as milestones in the development of the European business, which now comprises approximately 550 financial professionals [4]