CEO, Via Capital
One of London?s most notable debt capital markets bankers is resurfacing. Marc Bajer, formerly of Barclays Capital and Commerzbank, has set up a real-estate investment banking business. Subject to FSA approval, Via Capital should be up and running this year.
The firm is a 17-strong outfit based just off Liverpool Street, and it plans to offer three products. A structured finance advisory business will be aimed at end users and intermediaries looking for alternatives to traditional real-estate financing. Via Capital will also advise clients on setting up conduits to finance property development and investment. Thirdly, at arm?s length from the other two business lines, Via Capital will run an investment advisory business, raising third-party funds and investing them in property debt and property-related securities rather than directly in property.
Pending regulatory approval, Bajer wants Via Capital to start acting as investment adviser to its first fund and to start its first conduit financing by the end of the year.
Bajer thinks the time is right to launch a niche real-estate investment bank. ?The growth in the property markets in central and eastern Europe means new opportunities for everyone,? he says.