Blacktree Management Launches New Asset-Backed Finance Platform
On June 26, 2023, Blacktree Management LLC, an independent asset manager specializing in Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, announced the launch of a brand-new asset-backed finance platform. This initiative will focus on various investment opportunities, including both guaranteed and unguaranteed parts of SBA loans, whole loans, and unique asset-backed securities (ABS).
The new platform will be spearheaded by Founder and Managing Partner Ergkys Alizoti, who is well-known in the SBA secondary market and structured finance. Throughout his career, Alizoti has successfully managed more than $16.5 billion in SBA loan securitisations through 17 private transactions, building a robust reputation across different market conditions.
Alizoti emphasized the significance of asset-backed finance, describing it as a rapidly growing area within private credit that offers unique alternatives to corporate credit. He noted that the best investment opportunities often arise where there is a scarcity of capital and where specialized knowledge can create barriers for other investors. Blacktree aims to fill this gap by providing a focused platform for sourcing, underwriting, and structuring investments in SBA loans and esoteric ABS.
In a strategic move to bolster this new platform, Blacktree has partnered with affiliates of Fortress Investment Group, a highly respected global investment manager. The partnership includes collaboration with Odeon Capital Group LLC, which will assist with loan aggregation, securitisation execution, and structuring transactions.
Mario Rivera, Global Head of Asset-Backed Securities at Fortress, remarked that asset-based finance has been vital to their investment strategy for over twenty years. He expressed confidence in Blacktree’s ability to seize lucrative opportunities in structured credit due to its dedicated focus and proven track record.
“We are eager to leverage the extensive expertise of Fortress and Odeon as we grow Blacktree into a substantial, institutional-grade investment platform,” said Alizoti. “Their support not only validates our approach but also provides us with the resources needed to invest wisely and consistently deliver strong returns for our investors.”
This launch marks an exciting development in the asset-backed finance landscape, with Blacktree positioning itself as a key player in the market.
