FIRSTavenue: Excellence in Private Funds Advisory UK 2024

FIRSTavenue, established in 2006, operates as a privately held partnership without external investors. The company is dedicated to two primary areas: raising capital for private funds and advising on associated secondary transactions. With a global team of 45 professionals, FIRSTavenue’s success over the past 17 years is attributed to its focused approach, particularly within the private funds sector, targeting private credit and private infrastructure. This strategic focus aligns with industry growth trends. FIRSTavenue has pioneered early investments in these asset classes, especially post the 2008 global financial crisis, and has embraced new manager risks, supporting first-time funds that competitors often avoid. The company is known for providing insightful advice to general partners, ensuring the best interests of fundraising efforts. Identifying and capitalising on industry tailwinds has been crucial, with private credit and infrastructure emerging as significant asset classes. FIRSTavenue recognises the expansion of private fund investing globally, noting new centres of growth in Japan, Korea, Greater China, and parts of Latin America. The firm acknowledges the increasing importance of secondary markets, impact investing, and technological advancements like AI and blockchain in the private funds landscape. FIRSTavenue’s commitment to innovation is evident in its strategies to navigate the evolving market. The company’s client-centric approach and global reach position it as a leader in the private funds advisory sector. The CFI.co Judging Panel congratulates FIRSTavenue on winning the 2024 award for Excellence in Private Funds Advisory (UK).