Financial services is a large industry with a broad range of underlying segments that has historically represented over 10% of the U.S. economy and over 20% of the S&P 500 Index's market capitalization.
Beginning in 2007, the financial services industry has experienced one of the most severe global downturns in history, with the bulk of public financial services companies losing substantial market value. This downturn provides a buying opportunity for those specialized investors, like Lightyear Capital, that have the requisite financial services expertise needed to navigate the current landscape, as valuation, financing, and growth and exit strategies have become increasingly complicated. In addition, the regulatory, tax, and accounting complexities of financial services investing pose formidable barriers to entry to investors that lack knowledge of the industry. Despite compelling opportunities for strong economic returns, financial services remains one of the most underpenetrated investment sectors by private equity funds.
Lightyear Capital’s Principals, averaging over 20 years of experience at leading firms in the financial services industry, have a proven record of expertise in evaluating opportunities, structuring transactions, and achieving solid returns. Given their collective experience managing and operating some of Wall Street’s most prestigious institutions, Lightyear Capital’s Principals have a competitive advantage in identifying, negotiating, structuring, and managing investments.