A merchant banker often plays multiple roles that include those of an entrepreneur, operational and financial management advisor, in-house investment banker, corporate development advisor, specialized industry analyst, strategic planner and investor. Merchant bankers work with management and operating partners to enhance the ultimate enterprise value of a company over time. Merchant banker compensation is tied to deploying their capital, financial and/or human, in scalable operating companies which can benefit from their expertise. They clearly distinguish between companies that are: 1) financially challenged but viable, 2) financially successful and 3) economically successful. The vast majority of all companies fit in the first two categories. The charge of the merchant banker is to help clients become economically successful by realizing consistently superior returns and results that benefit customers, employees, vendors, lenders, management, owners and investors.

Merchant banking involves not only financing a company’s products and/or services, but also assisting it in the development of a comprehensive business strategy.  This is an interactive process that leads to an understanding of the business, its markets and the competition.

In developing strategy, Bella Carlo focuses on operating a company, the need for cash flows and measurable performance.  This operational approach requires our client and Bella Carlo to consider and account for all aspects of running a firm—from business development and operational management to financing and profitability.  Bella Carlo works with management and operating partners to enhance the ultimate enterprise value of a company over time.