Leading Leveraged Finance Experts

Gerard “Ged” Ward is a highly accomplished finance broker and founder of Platinum Global Bridging Finance, an award-winning firm specializing in bespoke asset-backed lending solutions for high-net-worth individuals, expats, and corporate clients. With over two decades of experience in international finance, Ged has built a strong reputation for structuring complex cross-border funding solutions, including bridging loans, stock loans, private equity finance, and expat mortgages across the US, UK, and Western Europe. Starting his career as an accountant, Ged transitioned into mortgage and asset finance, where his analytical background and client-first approach set him apart. Under his leadership, Platinum Global Bridging Finance was recognized as a featured Bridging Finance Broker and appeared in IBS Intelligence among leading lending platforms in the US. Ged’s expertise lies in identifying undervalued lending opportunities, negotiating flexible terms for clients, and developing bespoke funding models that preserve liquidity while unlocking growth capital. His approach combines disciplined financial structuring with global market insight, ensuring clients receive intelligent, transparent, and secure finance solutions. Beyond finance, Ged’s background in competitive Thai boxing—where he was ranked sixth in Europe—reflects his tenacity, focus, and drive for excellence, traits that continue to shape his professional success today.

I am an Institutional Debt Market Architect with more than 17 years of experience designing the valuation, liquidity, and recovery protocols that banks, credit unions, fintech lenders, and private credit funds rely on to make high-stakes decisions. I’ve advised on, analyzed, or helped broker over $100 billion in performing and non-performing receivables across consumer, commercial, auto, BNPL, mortgage, and specialty finance asset classes. My work sits at the intersection of portfolio valuation, lending risk, distressed-asset strategy, and AI-driven recovery intelligence. I help institutions understand the true condition of their receivables, uncover hidden risk, and translate complex credit dynamics into clear, actionable decisions. When lenders need to determine whether to hold, recover, restructure, or sell an asset, I’m the person they call. As Director of Portfolio Liquidity & Asset Disposition at Fitzgerald Advisors, I architect and execute loan-sale strategies, oversee due diligence, and structure NPL and charged-off debt transactions that maximize proceeds while maintaining regulatory integrity. I also build the technology that powers modern receivables strategy. I created Debt Catalyst, an AI-driven valuation and liquidation-curve engine used by professional debt buyers and investors. I developed Bank Watch Pro, a real-time intelligence platform that interprets FDIC and NCUA call-report data to identify institutional credit risk, NPL trends, charge-off exposure, and early-warning indicators. Across my ventures, I focus on one mission: turning distressed receivables, delinquency, and charge-offs into liquidity, clarity, and competitive advantage for financial institutions. I provide expert commentary on: Distressed portfolio valuation & credit-risk analysis NPL and charged-off debt sales Fintech lending trends & BNPL credit performance Bank & credit union financial health (FDIC/NCUA analytics) AI in collections, segmentation, and liquidation modeling Regulatory and compliance implications in debt markets I don’t follow the debt markets — I architect them. And I use that experience to help lenders, investors, and agencies make smarter, faster, and more profitable decisions.

Doug Perry is a visionary leader known for inspiring exponential personal and professional growth. He is the Managing Partner of Qual-Cap, a borrower centric boutique mortgage brokerage focused on client's financial goals, providing innovative real estate financing solutions and education. Doug has held senior leadership positions at ArchWest, Temple View Capital, Citadel Mortgage Services, 5 Arch, PennyMac, IndyMac, Countrywide Financial and Privlo, a pioneer fintech Non-QM start up. He is a recognized mortgage finance industry expert featured in segments on CNBC, CNN, Fox News, USA Today, US News and World Report, and the Wall Street Journal. Doug has a BA in Business Economics from the University of California at Santa Barbara.

Expertise in Consumer Finance, Marketing, Real Estate, and E-commerce. Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, which develops productive working relationships with individuals at all levels. Dedicated and motivated manager, who easily manages individuals and teams to produce optimum results. Strategic and analytical with experience developing and executing marketing plans, and managing digital and social media production. Creative writer with expertise in developing copy material, press materials, scripts, and content. Strong financial skills in managing P& L. Specialties: real estate, contract negotiation, banking and finance,marketing, merchandising, e-commerce,mortgage sales, recruiting, copy-writing,

Max Avery, a dynamic business development executive at Digital Ascension Group, drives growth across industries with a sharp focus on market leadership. His deep knowledge of traditional and emerging financial markets, backed by certifications like Capital Markets & Securities Analyst (CMSA)® and FinTech Industry Professional (FTIP)™, informs his strategic approach. Since 2016, he has excelled in raising capital and structuring deals in private equity and real estate. Appointed to the District Export Council by Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross in 2018, and a member of the National Small Business Association’s Economic Development Committee, Avery shapes policies for business growth. Guided by a philosophy of excellence, he turns complex challenges into practical solutions, establishing himself as a trusted strategist committed to lasting impact.

Private-equity-trained fractional CFO & exit-prep firm for founder-led businesses. We convert to accrual, build MFRs and KPI dashboards, run forecasting, and package for diligence to lift EBITDA and multiples across trades, e-commerce, tech, and professional services. 35+ clients Serial Founder in Health Tech, Veterinary Medicine, Plumbing, CPGs, Consulting, SaaS. Scaled from 0-2MM, sold or stabilized.

Peter Reagan is a respected financial strategist at Birch Gold Group with more than 15 years of experience in the precious metals market. His market commentary has been featured in outlets including Newsmax, ZeroHedge, and GoBankingRates. At Birch Gold Group, he helps investors understand how gold and other precious metals can strengthen long-term financial security. His clear guidance and commitment to education have made him a trusted voice in an evolving economic landscape. Known for his practical approach and genuine commitment to investors’ success, Peter makes financial concepts feel accessible and empowering. He brings clarity to uncertainty, helping people make confident decisions about their future. Whether sharing insights in the media or supporting clients one-on-one, he remains focused on education, integrity, and building lasting trust with those he serves.

Austin Talbert Loving is a seasoned USMC Officer and a dynamic entrepreneur specializing in financial literacy and leadership development. As Officer in Charge of Quantico’s Finance Pay Section, he applies military precision to ensure financial excellence. Co-founder of The Visionary Wealth Movement (VWM Finance), Austin brings a unique approach to wealth-building, empowering individuals and business owners to secure financial freedom. His multimedia venture, TDN Vision LLC, serves as a creative outlet, capturing powerful stories that resonate. Austin is dedicated to enhancing financial literacy and leadership in today’s professionals, helping them thrive in a rapidly evolving market. Whether through seminars, multimedia projects, or leadership workshops, Austin inspires others to unlock their potential. Connect with Austin to explore collaborations and insights on wealth, leadership, and success.

Jeffrey Barnett is a fiduciary financial advisor with over 30 years of experience, specializing in growing wealth, tax optimization, and retirement security. Jeffrey created and manages Fintegrity , an independent, fee-only, fiduciary Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) to serve clients who reside in the United States. At Fintegrity , we create unique solutions for each client investing more than $1 million. Our personalized approach ensures precision and care toward meeting your financial aspirations.Call Jeffrey at (201) 266-6829 or email Jeff@Fintegrity.com for a complimentary consultation. Let us help you secure your financial future.

I’m a fee-only financial advisor in Washington, D.C, and the founder of District Capital Management. I am deeply committed to helping professionals in their 30s and 40s retire by 55, through holistic financial planning and research-driven investing. Since 2013, I’ve empowered over 400 clients to take control of their financial futures, making personal finance approachable and less intimidating.

Coastal Kapital LLC is a financial services leader in commercial equipment financing and working capital. We maintain thousands of relationships with business owners, vendors, and manufacturers across the US who value partnerships as well as integrity. Our products at Coastal Kapital LLC include commercial equipment financing, working capital, merchant services, and business consulting. Coastal Kapital LLC was founded in 2007 under the original name Farhat Leasing LLC. Coastal Kapital LLC has also opened many doors for other successful account executives looking to further their careers. We are always looking for motivated individuals to help grow our business and expand their careers. Coastal Kapital LLC has relationships with over 20 funding sources to provide consultative relationships with long term solutions for each of our clients/partners.

Matt Thame is CEO and Founding Partner of Cohort Capital, where he leads strategic growth and investment direction across the firm’s property lending portfolio. With over a decade of experience spanning commodities, corporate finance, and real estate debt, Matt brings a blend of analytical rigour and entrepreneurial vision. He began his career as a commodities analyst at Glencore in Spain before joining the debt advisory arm of St James’s Place Wealth Management, placing and advising on more than £1bn of senior and mezzanine debt. At SevenCapital, he ran the build-to-rent financing division, deepening his expertise in UK property markets and institutional funding. In 2019, Matt co-founded Cohort Capital to address a gap in short-term and development finance. As CEO, he has built a reputation for structuring innovative lending solutions and fostering long-term partnerships with borrowers, introducers, and investors. He holds an MBA from Imperial College and remains a driving force behind Cohort’s commercial strategy and market positioning.

I am an experienced wealth management and fintech marketing communications leader who has quantifiably shown how to drive greater demand. With over 15 years of experience delivering marketing strategies for fintechs and financial service firms, I have been sought out to create, from the ground up, the messaging and marketing programs that will quantifiably move the needle in driving brand awareness and revenue opportunities for an organization. After years of delivering marketing programs, I can anticipate challenges, get in front of them, and deliver on-time, on-budget solutions. Over the course of my career, I have had the good fortune to learn how to optimize marketing best practices and professional development. It gives me great pleasure when I am able to share what I have learned with my team and create an environment that allows for their professional growth and development.

Damon Paull, AWMA® - Financial Advisor, Best-Selling Author, Military Veteran As a wealth management advisor and Amazon best-selling author in Money and Business, Damon Paull brings a military precision to financial journalism. His recent collaboration with former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss on "Empathetic Leadership" shows he can take complex financial concepts and turn them into stories that resonate with everyone. With over 8 years of industry experience and a background as a Marine Corps veteran and State Department contractor, Damon writes about: • Intergenerational wealth transfer • Corporate benefit plan optimization • Investment portfolio construction • Business succession planning • Veteran financial empowerment • Global market analysis through a geopolitical lens As a Wealth Management Advisor at Cetera Investors, Damon’s expertise goes beyond traditional financial planning. He uses cutting-edge financial technology and analysis tools to bring you fresh perspectives on emerging trends and investment opportunities. His writing style is data-driven with a storyline, making complex financial concepts accessible to sophisticated investors and general audiences. Regular contributor to discussions on wealth preservation, market dynamics and financial technology. Damon welcomes opportunities to provide professional commentary and in-depth analysis for financial publications looking for expert opinions on wealth management and investment strategies. For editorial inquiries or commentary: Damon Paull, AWMA Damon.Paull@ceterainvestors.com 832.535.2286 Glen Allen, VA Available for national and international commentary Cetera Investors. Damon Paull, Wealth Management Advisor. Securities and Insurance Products offered through Cetera Investment Services LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC. 140 EASTSHORE DR. SUITE 105, GLEN ALLEN, VA 23059. 804-346-4670. The opinions expressed are those of the writer, not recommendations of Cetera Investment Services LLC or its representatives.

I’m a bit of an oxymoron: a “numbers person” with a passion for people. Born and raised in the United States, after completing undergraduate and graduate degrees in Economics and Finance, my love of culture and new experiences led me to London to pursue a career in investment banking with a particular interest in the Consumer and Technology sectors. I love to connect with like-minded professionals throughout the financial services industry and more broadly. Please do not hesitate to reach out.

I lead the team at LeverageRx. We're a technology-focused personal insurance company focused on helping medical professionals nationwide win with their finances. We currently insure thousands of doctors and their families with disability insurance, life insurance and home & auto insurance. LeverageRx Insurance Services is a nationwide brokerage offering disability, life, home, auto and umbrella insurance to medical professionals. We also support financial planners and advisors with insurance planning for their medical clients.

Patrick Schultz brings a sharp analytical edge to real estate investing, shaped by his experience as a research analyst for Jim Cramer on CNBC’s Mad Money. His deep understanding of financial markets, asset valuation, and investment strategies allows him to identify undervalued properties and optimize yield across his real estate portfolio. Alongside his wife, Hilary Schultz—a licensed real estate agent in Texas and Florida— their small family owned portfolio of businesses operate across every stage of residential real estate. They acquire homes, execute strategic renovations in SFR properties, and selectively retain assets that align with their long-term investment strategy. For Patrick and Hilary, real estate isn’t just about buying and selling—it’s about crafting solutions for homeowners. Whether purchasing homes for cash, revitalizing physically distressed properties, or helping sellers move forward with confidence, they approach every transaction with a problem-solving mindset. Their goal? Delivering outsized returns for investors while creating a delightful real estate experience for Texas home sellers.​

Gavin Nathan is the CEO of Novitas Inc, where he is leading the charge to disrupt private equity and capital raising with liquidity solutions. With over 15 years of business, finance, aviation, asset management and private equity experience and a background in UK Military, Law Enforcement and Government, Gavin has a reputation for solving complex problems and finding growth opportunities. Under his leadership Novitas has structured over $500m in institutional grade assets and raised over $2.5b in private equity deals. The Novitas Inversion Model™ uses tokenization and risk management to speed up fundraising, unlock early liquidity and create transparent strategies that align with investor interests. Gavin is a thought leader in finance, investments, venture capital, leadership and capital markets and is dedicated to breaking down the barriers that hold businesses and investors back so they can achieve long term success in a fast changing financial world.

With a blend of business acumen and certified financial coaching, my role as Founder at Personal Financial Strategy centers on guiding individuals to financial empowerment. Leveraging years of expertise in debt resolution and new business development, I consistently deliver tailored solutions that resonate with the needs of working families.My specialty is: effectively using resources to alleviate financial stress. My "School of Hard Knocks" lessons learned, combined with a strategic approach to personal finance management, have enabled me to significantly impact lives by streamlining processes and improving financial well-being.

Sales and tech strategist driven to the front lines of the fintech evolution within the mortgage lending industry. Ambitiously working to create new opportunities, simplify processes, and pioneer modern solutions. Over 15 years of experience in the financial industry as an executive, strategist, consultant, trainer and team developer. •Founder of Liberty Financing LLC Previously: •Chief Strategy Officer at American Financing Corporation •Investment Advisor at Charles Schwab Knowledge and in depth experience ranges across technology innovation and integration (API, AI, Web design, SEO, SaaS), marketing, mortgage lending, business development, sales training, project management, data analysis and financial analysis. I’m passionate about providing the absolute best experience for our customers and the most rewarding career opportunities for our hard working high quality team members Current NMLS MLO State Licenses. Previously held FINRA Series 7 & Series 66 Licenses, Life and Health Insurance License, and Accredited Asset Management Specialist designation from the College of Financial Planning.