Piper Sandler Companies has reached a definitive agreement to purchase Abu Dhabi-based merchant bank MENA Growth Partners.
This acquisition is set to position Piper Sandler as a key player in the investment banking sector within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) territory.
MENA Growth Partners founder Eric Wilson, along with his team, will join Piper Sandler as consultants.
This acquisition is poised to leverage the regional connections of MENA Growth Partners, integrating Piper Sandler’s expertise in sectors such as technology, infrastructure, energy, healthcare, and chemicals, with equity capital markets and private capital advisory services for clients in the GCC.
Piper Sandler will see Nabeel Siddiqui, a managing director from its London branch, relocate to Abu Dhabi to spearhead the firm’s investment banking endeavours in the region post-acquisition.
Siddiqui will also continue to manage his current European business responsibilities.
The anticipated completion of this transaction is set for the first quarter of 2026, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
Legal counsel for Piper Sandler was provided by the Al Tamimi & Company law firm.
Piper Sandler Investment Banking and Capital Markets global co-head James Baker “Piper Sandler has a strong track record of building relationships and completing transactions in the Middle East.
“We are excited to expand our presence through this new partnership and strategic office location.”
MENA Growth Partners received counsel from Charles Russell Speechlys law firm and advisory services from TMF Group.
Eric Wilson said: “With nearly 40% of the world’s sovereign wealth assets managed from the GCC region and two-thirds of the global population located within an eight-hour flight, this part of the world is positioned to continue to flourish.
“After building long-term relationships in the region since 1983, I am proud to play a role in bringing Piper Sandler to one of the most exciting markets across the globe.”
Established in 1895, investment bank Piper Sandler has expanded its operations to include offices across the US and in international financial hubs such as London, Zurich, Aberdeen, Munich, and Hong Kong.
MENA Growth Partners is said to link Western enterprises, fund managers, and founders with key financial entities in the Middle East, including sovereign wealth funds, strategic partners, and family offices.
