Stout Acquires Financial Research Associates to Enhance Valuation and Litigation Support Services

Stout Expands Its Advisory Empire with the Acquisition of Financial Research Associates

Chicago, IL – In a strategic move that underscores its commitment to growth and excellence in the financial advisory sector, Stout, the Chicago-based powerhouse in investment banking and advisory services, announced on July 1 that it has successfully completed the acquisition of Financial Research Associates (FRA), a renowned financial consulting firm based in Bala Cynwyd, PA. This acquisition is a testament to Stout’s ambitious expansion strategy and its dedication to enhancing its valuation and litigation support capabilities.

Founded in 1981, FRA has carved a niche for itself in the financial consulting world, offering specialized services in business valuation, forensic accounting, and litigation support. With a robust team of over 30 professionals spread across its offices in Bala Cynwyd, PA; Edison, NJ; and New York City, FRA has established a formidable presence in the tri-state area. This acquisition will see FRA’s seasoned team integrating into Stout’s valuation advisory group, a move that promises to fortify Stout’s service offerings in business valuation, litigation, and family law valuation.

Greg O’Hara, President of the Valuation Advisory Group at Stout, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "This acquisition marks a significant milestone for Stout as we continue to expand our capabilities in Business Valuation and Litigation Support. FRA’s deep expertise and strong market presence in the tri-state area including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York complement Stout’s existing strengths, enhancing our ability to deliver exceptional service and solutions to our clients."

The acquisition of FRA is the latest in a series of strategic moves by Stout, following its receipt of an investment from Audax Private Equity in November 2021. Since then, Stout has aggressively expanded its portfolio, which now includes notable acquisitions such as The Claro Group and Davis & Hosfield Consulting, both based in Chicago.

Jay Fishman, founder and managing director at FRA, shared his optimism about joining forces with Stout, "We are excited to join Stout and leverage its extensive resources and global reach. This union will allow us to offer our clients enhanced capabilities, deeper industry insights, and access to a broader range of advisory services."

Stout, founded in 1991, has grown to become a global leader in corporate finance, accounting and transaction advisory, valuation, financial disputes, claims, and investigations. With over 1,200 employees and 26 offices spread across the US, Europe, and Asia, Stout’s global reach and comprehensive service offerings set it apart in the competitive financial advisory landscape.

This acquisition not only marks a significant expansion of Stout’s valuation and litigation support capabilities but also reinforces its position as a leader in the financial advisory sector. With the integration of FRA’s expertise and market presence, Stout is poised to deliver unparalleled service and solutions to its clients, further solidifying its reputation as a trusted advisor in the complex world of finance.