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.

I founded Commercial Funding Partners in 2012 with a clear mission: build a performing portfolio of customers who return because we treat them right and help them grow responsibly. After six years at a competitor and seeing how customers were often handled at deal end, I knew there was a better way to do business in commercial equipment finance. We’re a national direct lender with capacity from $250,000 to over $100 million per project, serving manufacturers, contractors, healthcare providers, transportation companies, and others across the U.S. What sets us apart is speed paired with judgment. Our small, senior-level finance committee allows us to make decisions quickly—often the same day—and months faster than SBA processes, where time value often outweighs minor rate differences. We listen to the story behind the balance sheet and underwrite context, not just numbers. We structure real-world solutions through progress funding, 100% project financing, sale-leasebacks, and tax-aware terms that banks often can’t provide. We don’t do deals we wouldn’t sign ourselves. Over 40% of our business comes from repeat clients, many with long-standing relationships that improve with each transaction. I’m active in industry leadership with ELFA, NEFA, and AACFB, where I chaired the Education Committee for four years and received the President’s Award. Before CFP, I worked at IBM and helped manage and grow Plumbers Supply Company through its acquisition by Wolseley. I hold a BS from the University of Utah and an MBA from Westminster College. Our goal is simple: be the first call for our customers and help great businesses grow smarter and faster.

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.

Steven founded Catalyst Advisory to take the experience he gained by working in a family office advisory firm and apply the best practices learned there to other families under an independent umbrella. Catalyst works with the best insurance professionals, wealth management firms, and trusted advisors to solve problems for their clients. After spending the first decade of his career working with community and regional banks, helping them navigate statement compliance and distribution, and transitioning them to digital platforms, Steven followed his passion to help families and companies thrive by becoming an expert in all areas of life insurance and advanced planning. Steven’s expertise, experience and independent streak make Catalyst the ideal solution for families seeking to make the most of their financial legacy.

Marcel is the founder and CEO at CRYLO®, a crypto wealth management platform fully powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms, providing personalized crypto investment portfolios. Before that, he also founded iMi Blockchain, a global blockchain consulting and Web3 development firm. Marcel served as a board member and managing director in various companies. He was marketing manager at 3M, leading their industrial business in Switzerland. Furthermore, Marcel is a member of the Crypto Valley Association in Zug, Switzerland. Marcel studied Economics, Banking and Finance, in Zurich, Switzerland, as well as Blockchain Strategy at the University of Oxford (Saïd Business School).

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.

In 2015, wealth manager Michael DeMassa, CFA, CFP® left a corporate banking job in order to create Forza Wealth Management from the ground up, with a sole focus on providing sound investment advice to clients. Now, the Fee-Only advisory firm has a team of five providing custom-tailored wealth management services and managing nearly $400 million in assets. Bachelor of Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), 1997 CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®), 2003 Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), 2006 Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®), 2024

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.

James Vanreusel spent 8 years with a Wall Street investment bank. He generated around $8 Million in annual sales through his relationships with hedge and mutual funds, before moving into private equity and asset management. After leaving Wall Street, he became a CFA Charterholder and went on to found three microfinance banks in the South Pacific. He also created a holding company based in Singapore that delivered growth at 600%. In 2014, he moved to San Francisco and set up Vanreusel Ventures: a team of CFO consultants and financial analysts, working with for-profit and non-profit clients across the US. They help emerging companies to grow and scale, by building teams and systems that will expand with the business. All while developing the finance skills and mindset of the CEO. The result is a framework to see the business through the early years, in readiness for its first full-time CFO. The #1 Key To Creating A Thriving Business is James’ first book – drawing on the first 20 years of a career that’s taken him deep into the world’s financial markets. Here is a link for your free book: https://vanreuselventures.com/free-book/

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’m a fee-only fiduciary financial adviser, chief investment officer and founder of Cedar Point Capital Partners, where I help executives, business owners, and affluent families navigate complex financial decisions with clarity and discipline. I regularly comment on investment strategy, retirement planning, tax-aware wealth management, and how households actually manage cash, risk, and returns in real-world markets. My perspective centers on long-term thinking, realistic return expectations, and minimizing the practical risks that often drive outcomes during periods of market stress or transition. I’ve been featured in national and regional media on topics including retirement policy, savings strategies, and fiduciary excellence. As you may expect given my role, I am registered as an Investment Adviser Representative with Cedar Point Capital Partners LLC, a registered investment adviser. The perspectives I share here or in any media I provide commentary in are general in nature and not intended as individualized investment advice. For more information, please visit: https://www.cedarpointcap.com/disclaimers-disclosures/